| Essence |
Calcium Sulfite or E226 is an inorganic compound (synthetic preservative) that has the appearance of a white crystalline powder. It is used in food for the purposes of extending shelf life and preservation (it has anti-bacterial and anti-fungi properties). It also does get used in sugar production (as a bleaching agent). |
| Names |
Calcium Sulphite, Calcium Salt of Sulfite, Calcium Salt of Sulfurous Acid, E226, Calcium Sulfite, and others. |
| Sourcing |
To make this ingredient, it all starts with Sulfur Dioxide. |
| Manufacturing |
The sourcing ingredient is mixed with Calcium Carbonate in an aqueous suspension. This creates Calcium Hydrosulfite which is then completely dried to obtain the additive. |
| Application |
Preservative (synthetic, slightly water-soluble) and antioxidant. |
| Acceptable Daily Intake |
It’s recommended in amounts no higher than 0.7 milligrams for every kilogram of body weight. But that’s a number void of reality. It is banned in Australia. |
| Side Effects |
To me, it makes no sense as to how an additive that literally has no safety record can be approved for consumption. The potential side effects can likely be similar to those of other sulfites like the Sulfur Dioxide (E220), Sodium Sulfite (E221), and Potassium Sulfite (E225). In addition to that, it can cause, gastric irritation, and asthma, and reduce vitamin B and E contents in the food. |
| Benefits |
None. |
| Studies |
Less than 15 studies on Pubmed. No studies on safety. |
| Allergens |
None. |
| Diet Restrictions |
None. |
| Health Knight Assessment |
(Extremely) Likely Harmful. | Category 4 Additive. |
| Products |
Calcium Sulfite isn’t very commonly used. That said, it can still be found in desserts, cakes, pies, ice cream, ciders, fruit juices, canned fruit and vegetables, wines, bread, and other products. |
