Sodium Metabisulfite

Sodium Metabisulfite: Properties, Applications, Safety, and Sourcing

Sodium Metabisulfite (CAS No: 7681-57-4). Whether you are in the food processing industry, wastewater treatment, or textile manufacturing, understanding the chemistry and application of this inorganic compound is essential for operational excellence.

At ChemicalsSuppliers.com, we pride ourselves on being the global hub for high-purity chemical solutions. This comprehensive guide will navigate the intricacies of Sodium Metabisulfite, from its molecular structure to its procurement strategies.


1. What is Sodium Metabisulfite? (Understanding the Chemistry)

Sodium Metabisulfite, also known by synonyms such as Sodium Pyrosulfite or Disodium Pyrosulfite, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na₂S₂O₅. It appears as a white, crystalline, or powdery substance with a slight sulfurous odor.

Chemical Profile:

  • Systematic Name: Disodium disulfite
  • Molecular Weight: 190.10 g/mol
  • Solubility: Highly soluble in water
  • pH: 4.0–5.5 (in 5% solution)

When dissolved in water, it releases sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which acts as a powerful antioxidant, antimicrobial agent, and reducing agent. This property makes it a staple in various commercial sectors.


2. Key Applications of Sodium Metabisulfite

A. Food and Beverage Industry

The food sector is perhaps the largest consumer of Sodium Metabisulfite. It is used as a preservative (E223) to prevent the browning of dried fruits, inhibit bacterial growth in wines, and maintain the shelf life of various food products.

B. Water Treatment

Sodium Metabisulfite is highly effective in dechlorinating water. It reacts with residual chlorine or chloramines, making it vital for municipal water treatment plants and industrial boiler systems to prevent corrosion.

C. Mining and Metallurgy

In gold mining, it is used to detoxify cyanide-containing waste streams. By reducing the hazardous cyanide to less harmful cyanates, it ensures compliance with environmental safety regulations.

D. Textile and Paper Industry

It serves as a bleaching agent and an anti-chlor treatment in the textile industry to remove excess bleach from fabrics after the whitening process.


3. Safety, Handling, and Storage Guidelines

Given its chemical nature, handling Sodium Metabisulfite requires strict adherence to safety protocols.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask or respirator.
  2. Ventilation: Use only in well-ventilated areas to avoid the inhalation of sulfur dioxide gas.
  3. Storage: Keep in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse. Store away from strong acids and oxidizing agents, as contact can lead to the release of toxic gases.
  4. Disposal: Follow local environmental regulations. Do not discharge into surface waters without neutralization.

Check our Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Library for specific handling instructions.


4. Top 50 Related Chemicals & Where to Buy

At ChemicalsSuppliers.com, we offer a vast inventory of industrial reagents. Below is a curated list of related chemicals, their common uses, and how to source them.

No Chemical Name Industry Use Price Range (USD)
1 Sodium Sulfite Water Treatment $0.80 – $1.50/kg
2 Sodium Bisulfite Bleaching $0.70 – $1.30/kg
3 Potassium Metabisulfite Winemaking $2.00 – $3.50/kg
4 Citric Acid Food Industry $1.20 – $2.10/kg
5 Hydrogen Peroxide Sanitization $0.50 – $1.20/kg
6 Sodium Thiosulfate Photography $1.50 – $2.50/kg
See full list of 50+ items on our website

(Note: Prices fluctuate based on market demand and quantity. Request a custom quote here.)


5. Why Choose ChemicalsSuppliers.com?

Purchasing chemicals can be a complex logistical challenge. We streamline the process by offering:

  • Bulk Sourcing: Direct access to manufacturer pricing.
  • Global Shipping: Reliable logistics to ensure your chemicals arrive safely and on time.
  • Quality Assurance: Every batch of Sodium Metabisulfite is tested for purity (97%-99%).
  • Technical Support: Our team of chemists is available to assist with formulation queries.

6. Global Reach: Terminology in Different Languages

To serve our international clientele, here are the terms for Sodium Metabisulfite in various languages:

  • Chinese: 焦亚硫酸钠 (Jiāo yà liúsuān nà)
  • Hindi: सोडियम मेटाबाइसल्फाइट
  • Spanish: Metabisulfito de sodio
  • Arabic: ميتابيسلفيت الصوديوم
  • French: Métabisulfite de sodium
  • Bengali: সোডিয়াম মেটাবিসালফাইট
  • Korean: 메타중아황산나트륨
  • Portuguese: Metabissulfito de sódio
  • Indonesian: Natrium Metabisulfit
  • Russian: Метабисульфит натрия
  • German: Natriummetabisulfit
  • Japanese: メタ重亜硫酸ナトリウム
  • Vietnamese: Natri metabisunfit
  • Turkish: Sodyum Metabisülfit

7. Expert Tips for Storage and Procurement

When ordering for large-scale operations, consider these expert tips:

  1. Moisture Control: Sodium Metabisulfite is hygroscopic. Ensure your storage facility has humidity control systems to prevent clumping.
  2. Packaging: For industrial quantities, we offer 25kg bags or 1-ton super sacks. Choose based on your facility’s material handling capabilities.
  3. Certification: Verify if you require USP/Food Grade or Technical Grade. Always specify this when contacting our sales department.

8. Conclusion: The Path Forward

Sodium Metabisulfite remains an indispensable tool for modern industry. Whether you are preserving food, mining precious metals, or treating industrial wastewater, the quality of your reagents dictates the success of your final product.

Visit ChemicalsSuppliers.com today to browse our full catalog, view current pricing, and speak with a specialist who understands your unique chemical requirements.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Sodium Metabisulfite safe for human consumption? A: When used within the legally permitted limits in food manufacturing, it is considered safe. However, individuals with sulfite sensitivity or asthma should avoid products containing it.

Q: Does it have a shelf life? A: Typically, it remains stable for 12–24 months if stored in a tightly sealed container away from moisture and heat.

Q: How do I order in bulk? A: Simply visit our Bulk Order Portal to receive competitive wholesale pricing.