SULFUR DIOXIDE
Prepared at the 51st JECFA (1998), published in FNP 52 Add 6 (1998) superseding specifications prepared at the 49th JECFA (1997), published
in FNP 52 Add 5 (1997). Group ADI 0-0.7 mg/kg bw as SO2 for sulfites, established at the 51st JECFA in 1998.
SYNONYMS INS No. 220
DEFINITION
C.A.S. number 7446-09-5
Chemical formula SO2
Formula weight 64.07
Assay Not less than 99.9 % SO2 by weight
DESCRIPTION Colourless, non-flammable gas, with strong, pungent, suffocating odour. Its vapour density is 2.26 times that of air at atmospheric pressure and 0o. The specific gravity of the liquid is about 1.436 at 0o/4o. At 20o the solubility is about 10 g of SO2 per 100 g of solution. It is normally supplied under pressure in containers in which it is present in both liquid and gaseous phases.
Caution: Sulfur dioxide gas is intensely irritating to the eyes, throat, and upper respiratory system. Liquid sulfur dioxide may cause skin burns, which result from the freezing effect of the liquid on tissue. Safety precautions to be observed in handling of the material are specified in technical brochures from liquid sulfur dioxide manufacturers, suppliers or organizations of gas manufacturers or suppliers (For example, "Pamphlet G-3" published by the Compressed Gas Association, Suite 1004, 1725 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA 22202, USA).
FUNCTIONAL USES Preservative, antibrowning agent, antioxidant,
