Ingredients --

Sulfur dioxide

Chemical Formula: SO₂

Synonyms

Description

Sulfur dioxide is the acrid smelling gas produced when sulfur is burned in air.

Uses

Sulfur dioxide is a reducing bleach, and can counter the effects of oxidizing bleaches, thus preserving color in fruits dried in the sun. The combination of fruit acids and ultraviolet light would otherwise react with the colorful compounds in the fruit, making them pale.

Sulfur dioxide is produced by burning sulfur in air (for preserving fruit), or by reacting sodium bisulfite in the water in a product such as wine.

Sulfur dioxide kills yeasts, molds, and bacteria.