Sodium Metabisulphite

What Is Sodium Metabisulphite?

Sodium metabisulphite also written as sodium metabisulfite is an inorganic salt that releases sulphur dioxide (SO₂) when dissolved in water or exposed to moisture. It is a powerful, multi-purpose chemical compound with the formula Na₂S₂O₅. A white to cream-coloured crystalline powder with a faint sulphur odour, it is one of the most widely used preservatives and antioxidants across the food, beverage, water treatment, and industrial sectors. At HOMELINK ONLINE, Nairobi, Kenya, we outsource premium-grade sodium metabisulphite from reputable suppliers — reliable, effective, and available in wholesale and retail quantities.

What is Sodium Metabisulphite Used For?

• Food preservation: Prevents browning, oxidation, and microbial spoilage in dried fruits, vegetables, fruit juices, jams, and pickles. Keeps food looking fresh and extending shelf life significantly.
• Winemaking & brewing: One of the most essential tools in home and commercial winemaking — used to sterilize equipment, inhibit wild yeast and bacteria, and preserve wine color and flavor.
• Water treatment: Removes excess chlorine and chloramine from municipal water supplies, making it safe for brewing, aquariums, and industrial processes.
• Baking: Used as a dough conditioner to improve texture and reduce mixing time in commercial bread production.
• Photography: A key component in photographic developing solutions as a preservative and reducing agent.
• Textile & paper industry: Used as a bleaching and reducing agent in textile processing and paper manufacturing.
• Pharmaceutical: Acts as an antioxidant in injectable medications and topical formulations to prevent degradation.
• Seafood processing: Prevents melanosis (black spot) in shrimp and other crustaceans during storage and transport.

Safety & Handling

Sodium metabisulphite releases sulphur dioxide gas when in contact with acids or moisture. Always handle in a well-ventilated area, wear gloves and eye protection, and avoid inhaling dust. Keep away from children. Individuals with sulphite sensitivity or asthma should avoid direct contact.

Storage Instructions

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place in a tightly sealed airtight container away from moisture, heat, acids, and direct sunlight. Exposure to air causes gradual oxidation to sodium metabisulphate, reducing effectiveness over time. Properly stored, it retains full potency for 2–3 years. Always use a dry scoop to prevent contamination.

From winery to water treatment, from food factory to home kitchen — HOMELINK ONLINE Sodium Metabisulphite is the trusted preservative and purifier your process depends on. Order from Nairobi, Kenya today.