What Is Sodium Metabisulphite Used For?

What is sodium metabisulphite used for?

Sodium metabisulphite is a chemical compound that is widely used in various industries. It is a white crystalline powder that has a slight odor of sulfur dioxide. Its chemical formula is Na2S2O5.

Sodium metabisulphite is mainly used as a food preservative, antioxidant, and sterilizing agent. It is also used in the pharmaceutical industry and in water treatment plants.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the various uses of sodium metabisulphite.

Food Preservative

Sodium metabisulphite is widely used as a food preservative. It is added to food products to prevent oxidation and to extend their shelf life. It is also used to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms in food products.

It is commonly used in dried fruits, wine, beer, and other beverages. It is also used in various food products such as sausages, cheese, and baked goods.

The use of sodium metabisulphite as a food preservative is regulated by various food safety organizations. The acceptable daily intake (ADI) for sodium metabisulphite is set at 0-0.7 mg/kg body weight.

Antioxidant

Sodium metabisulphite is an antioxidant that is used in various food products. It is added to food products to prevent oxidation and to maintain their color, flavor, and texture.

It is commonly used in fruit juices, wine, and beer. It is also used in various food products such as potato chips, dried fruits, and canned foods.

The use of sodium metabisulphite as an antioxidant is also regulated by various food safety organizations. The acceptable daily intake (ADI) for sodium metabisulphite is set at 0-0.7 mg/kg body weight.

Sterilizing Agent

Sodium metabisulphite is a sterilizing agent that is used in various industries. It is used to sterilize equipment, containers, and surfaces.

In the pharmaceutical industry, sodium metabisulphite is used to sterilize drug products and to prevent microbial growth in drug formulations.

In the water treatment industry, sodium metabisulphite is used to remove chlorine from water and to prevent the growth of microorganisms in water treatment systems.

Other Uses

Sodium metabisulphite is also used for various other purposes. It is used in photography as a developing agent and as a fixing agent.

It is also used in the mining industry to separate metal ores from their gangue.

Conclusion

Sodium metabisulphite is a versatile chemical compound that is widely used in various industries. It is mainly used as a food preservative, antioxidant, and sterilizing agent. It is also used in photography, mining, and water treatment.

The use of sodium metabisulphite is regulated by various food safety organizations and other regulatory agencies. The acceptable daily intake (ADI) for sodium metabisulphite is set at 0-0.7 mg/kg body weight.

Overall, sodium metabisulphite plays an important role in many industries, helping to preserve food, prevent oxidation, sterilize equipment, and more.