Content
E223 was used in animal husbandry in the last century. Currently, the substance is used for various industrial purposes. The harm of sodium pyrosulfite is due to its basic properties.
What is preservative E223
The additive has several variants of names:
- pyrosulfite or sodium metabisulfite;
- sodium pyrosulfuric acid.
The substance is used in the following industries:
- Agriculture;
- pharmaceuticals;
- food production.
The popularity of the supplement is due to the presence of the following properties:
- baking powder;
- preservative;
- antioxidant.
What is sodium pyrosulfite antioxidant made of?
The substance is classified as a preservative. The pyrosulfurous acid salt is obtained by mixing sulfur oxide (sulfur dioxide) with a soda-sulfite solution (a combination of sulfite and sodium carbonate).
The specified solution is exposed to sulfur dioxide. It is evaporated to sodium pyrosulfite, which has the form of a crystalline powder.
It is known that sodium metabisulfite refers to crystallized fine powders, which are either white or light yellow in color. It includes:
- sulphur dioxide;
- sodium carbonate and sulfite.
The additive is represented by the formula Na2S2O5 and has a pungent odor. The dye dissolves in water to form sodium hydrogen sulfate. There is no solubility in oils and alcohol. When heated, sulfur dioxide is formed.
The benefits and harms of food additives E223
An antioxidant has the advantage of scavenging free radicals. They have a detrimental effect on cells, contributing to the development of malignant tumors. It should be borne in mind that sodium pyrosulfite is not a carcinogen. On the contrary, the substance has powerful antioxidant properties.
Side effects can occur in people with allergic reactions. When heated, E223 releases sulfur dioxide, which is a toxic gas. That is why the preservative belongs to the 3rd class of hazardous toxic components. The gas released can cause asthma attacks and angioedema.
If a clean substance comes into contact with the skin, a burn occurs. When working with him, you should remember about personal protective equipment, which include:
- glasses;
- respirator;
- latex gloves.
Dangerous or not food additive E223
Experts say that the substance is harmless if used in small quantities. Metabolic processes in the body occur quickly, the preservative is excreted through the kidneys.
Application of sodium pyrosulfite
E223 is used in the food and technical industries, as well as in pharmaceuticals and agriculture. The additive is an antioxidant, baking powder, preservative and bleach. Sodium pyrosulfite is used in winemaking by regulating the shade of the drink, as well as biological stability.The preservative prevents the growth of harmful microorganisms (aerobic bacteria).
The food additive is included in the beer. It protects the alcoholic beverage from negative external factors, extending the shelf life. Thus, oxidation processes are less intense.
Sodium pyrosulfite is added to the following foods:
- frozen and dried mushrooms;
- seafood;
- canned or frozen fruits and vegetables;
- confectionery;
- the grape juice;
- sausages;
- dried fruits;
- salted and dried fish;
- soft drinks, juices (except baby food).
The food additive is used in the manufacture of gelatin and starch. The removal of pulp residues from coffee beans also occurs with the help of a substance.
Sodium pyrosulfite is added to the composition of tablets, shampoos, creams, deodorants. The acid is involved in the disinfection of water filters. The unrefined product is used for tanning leather, bleaching stains, making photographs.
Conclusion
The harm of sodium pyrosulfite is negligible when consumed in acceptable quantities. The additive is used in various fields due to its antiseptic and antioxidant properties. The component allows you to increase the shelf life of products by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. Thus, you can prevent the appearance of unpleasant odors, mold, toxins. In case of an overdose, acute intoxication occurs.
