What is E222?
E222 is Sodium bisulphite, a food additive used as a preservative. Mineral. Some people avoid sulphites for health reasons.
Also written as: INS 222, E-222, E 222. INS is the international numbering system used outside Europe, including on labels in Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
What to do
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Is E222 vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E222 (Sodium bisulphite) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Why we classify it this way
Halal Mineral. Some people avoid sulphites for health reasons.
Basis: No concern found. Made from plants, minerals, fermentation or synthesis, or from a permitted animal product. Nothing in normal production raises a pork, alcohol, insect or slaughter question.
No external reference is listed for this record yet.
Classification audited 3 November 2026. It has not been reviewed by a scholar. How classifications work · Suggest a correction
Frequently asked questions
Is E222 halal?
E222 (Sodium bisulphite) is halal. Mineral. Some people avoid sulphites for health reasons.
What is E222 made from?
Mineral salt.
What is E222 used for?
E222 is used as a preservative, typically in soft drinks, bread, cured meats, dried fruit and sauces.
What should I do if a product contains E222?
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Is E222 vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E222 (Sodium bisulphite) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.