Allergen: Sulphur dioxide and sulphites – what belongs to it, hidden sources and labelling
Sulphur dioxide and sulphites is one of the 14 allergens that must be declared under Annex II of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 – including for non-prepacked food at a buffet. It covers sulphur dioxide (E 220), sulphites such as sodium sulphite, sodium bisulphite, sodium and potassium metabisulphite (E 221–E 228), to be declared above 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l, expressed as total SO₂ in the ready-to-eat product. In Catering Cat the allergen has the code L.
What belongs to it?
- Sulphur dioxide (E 220)
- Sulphites such as sodium sulphite, sodium bisulphite, sodium and potassium metabisulphite (E 221–E 228)
- To be declared above 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l, expressed as total SO₂ in the ready-to-eat product
Where is it often hidden?
- Wine, sparkling wine, wine vinegar and wine sauces
- Dried fruit (e.g. apricots, raisins)
- Pre-peeled or treated potato products
- Pickles, mustard and sauces
- Prawns (treated against blackening)
- Fruit juices, syrups, fruit preparations
Exemptions under Annex II
The regulation lists no exemptions for this allergen.
Tips for catering and buffets
- Sulphites are the only allergen with a threshold: above 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l declaration is mandatory.
- For wine in sauces or desserts and for dried fruit, treat the content as “contained” when in doubt.
- Ask suppliers for specifications of potato products and seafood.
How it appears on the buffet card
On the back of the card, the allergen is shown with its full name (“Sulphur dioxide and sulphites”), as a short name (“Sulphites”) or as the code “L” with a legend – depending on the display you choose in Catering Cat.
Frequently asked questions
From what amount must sulphites be declared?
Above 10 mg per kg or 10 mg per litre, expressed as sulphur dioxide in the product as ready for consumption or as reconstituted according to the manufacturer.
Do I have to declare wine in a sauce?
Yes if the sauce therefore contains more than 10 mg/kg sulphites. Because the content is rarely measured, many businesses declare sulphites in wine sauces as a precaution.
All 14 allergens
Ready for your next buffet?
Set up your business and print your first buffet cards today.
Start for freeThis page summarises the rules in general terms and is not legal advice. When in doubt, ask your local food authority.