Sulphites on the EU allergen list: the 10 mg/kg threshold explained
Published 2026-10-03 · PlateNote
Item 12 of Annex II of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 is sulphur dioxide and sulphites — the only item on the list with a number attached.
The exact rule
They must be declared “at concentrations of more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/litre in terms of the total SO2”, calculated for products as proposed ready for consumption or as reconstituted according to the manufacturer's instructions.
What that means for you
- Below 10 mg/kg (or 10 mg/litre), a declaration is not required. If you react to very small amounts, ask specifically.
- The threshold applies to the food as eaten (ready for consumption or reconstituted), not to a concentrate.
- Sulphur dioxide and sulphites are often declared on wine labels (“contains sulphites”) and dried fruit. In a restaurant, ask about wine, dressings and dried fruit in dishes.
Names in other languages: zwaveldioxide en sulfieten (NL), Schwefeldioxid und Sulphite (DE), anhydride sulfureux et sulfites (FR), dióxido de azufre y sulfitos (ES), anidride solforosa e solfiti (IT), dióxido de enxofre e sulfitos (PT).
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A card is a communication aid; it does not guarantee that food is safe.