Sodium sulfite

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Sodium sulfite (Na2SO3) is a chemical compound in the sulfite family. It is used in various industries, including the pulp and paper industry, the textile industry, and the photographic industry. Sodium sulfite is also used as a food preservative and as a reducing agent in dyeing.

Chemical properties[edit | edit source]

Sodium sulfite is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water. It is a strong reducing agent that can be oxidized to sodium sulfate.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Sodium sulfite is used in a variety of industries for different purposes. In the pulp and paper industry, it is used in the Kraft process for the production of pulp. In the textile industry, it is used as a bleaching agent and as a reducing agent in dyeing. In the photographic industry, it is used as a developer.

In addition to these industrial uses, sodium sulfite is also used as a food preservative. It is used to prevent browning in fruit and vegetables, and to inhibit the growth of microorganisms in fermented foods.

Health effects[edit | edit source]

Exposure to sodium sulfite can cause a variety of health effects. Ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Inhalation can cause respiratory irritation, and skin contact can cause dermatitis. Long-term exposure can lead to more serious health effects, including kidney damage and anemia.

See also[edit | edit source]

Sodium sulfite Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Bonnu, Prab R. Tumpati, MD