E220 is a food additive approved by the European Union (EU) and used as an antifungal preservative in food products.
The common name for E220 is sulphur dioxide.
E220 is ineffective at a neutral pH but works best in acidic conditions. It acts as an oxidising agent, which limits its use in some food products. The oxidising action tends to reduce the Vitamin C content of the products containing it.
E220 is a common substance which also has bleaching effects that are exploited in order to prevent discolouration of products such as flour. It occurs naturally from the combustion of sulphur, hydrogen sulphide or gypsum, and may be considered a pollutant.
Examples of food/drink products that may include E220:
- dried fruit
- soft drinks