1 Global Sodium Metabisulfite Market Size (Value) and CAGR (2024-2033)
In 2024, the global Sodium Metabisulfite market value is forecasted to reach $818.43 million, with a CAGR of 4.13% from 2024 to 2033.
Sodium Metabisulfite, chemically known as Na2S2O5, is an inorganic compound characterized by its white crystalline or powdery form and a slight sulfur odor. It is toxic if inhaled and can strongly irritate skin and tissues.
Despite these properties, it is not flammable but can decompose at high temperatures, releasing toxic fumes of sulfur and sodium oxides. When dissolved in water, it forms a corrosive acid, and its solubility in water increases with temperature. This versatile compound finds extensive use as a disinfectant, antioxidant, and antiseptic in a variety of industries.
Figure Global Sodium Metabisulfite Market Size (M USD) and CAGR 2024-2033

2 Sodium Metabisulfite Market Drivers and Trends
Analysis of Market Drivers for Sodium Metabisulfite:
The Sodium Metabisulfite market is influenced by a multitude of factors that propel its growth. One of the primary drivers is the wide range of applications across various industries. Sodium Metabisulfite serves as a critical component in water treatment, pulp and paper production, textile processing, mining, and food preservation. Its role as a reducing agent, oxygen scavenger, and preservative makes it indispensable in these sectors. The development of downstream industries, particularly the food and pharmaceutical sectors, is a significant market driver, as these industries demand high-quality Sodium Metabisulfite for their processes.
Technological progress is another key driver, enhancing production efficiency and reducing costs. Innovations in recycling mother liquor and energy multiple times have led to energy savings and reduced environmental impact. Additionally, the growing awareness of food safety and the demand for natural and organic products have created opportunities for Sodium Metabisulfite in the food industry, as it helps maintain the freshness and quality of food products.
Market Trends for Sodium Metabisulfite:
The market trends indicate a shift towards digital transformation and diversified distribution models. The rise of online sales channels and new media products has expanded the reach of Sodium Metabisulfite to consumers, increasing brand visibility and market share. This trend is expected to continue, with more companies adopting digital strategies to enhance their market presence. The convenience of online purchasing and the elimination of geographic boundaries are attracting customers to online channels, creating new market opportunities.
Another significant trend is the focus on enterprise digital transformation. As industries increasingly adopt digital technologies like the Internet of Things and cloud computing, the supply chain and distribution of Sodium Metabisulfite are expected to become more efficient and automated. This transformation will enable companies to better manage their operations and meet the growing demands of the market.
Factors Challenging the Market:
One of the main challenges is the interoperability and standardization issues among different operators and devices. The lack of a unified standard can lead to compatibility problems, limiting the technology’s potential reach and effectiveness.
Regulatory hurdles represent another challenge, particularly in regions where eSIM technology is still in its infancy. Policymakers in some countries have yet to establish a clear regulatory framework for eSIM, creating uncertainty for both service providers and consumers.
Additionally, the market faces competition from traditional SIM card providers, who may be reluctant to adopt eSIM due to the potential disruption to their existing business models. This resistance can slow down the adoption rate of eSIM technology in the travel sector.
3 Sodium Metabisulfite Market Challenges
The Sodium Metabisulfite market, despite its significant growth potential, is not without its challenges. These challenges have a profound impact on the industry’s trajectory and must be carefully managed to ensure the market’s continued expansion and success.
One of the primary challenges is the stringent regulatory environment surrounding the use of Sodium Metabisulfite. Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) and other regulatory bodies continuously improve food safety management systems, which impacts the use of Sodium Metabisulfite in food products. Many countries have explicit limits on its use, with China, for instance, prohibiting its use in fish and fish products and capping its dosage in dried fruits at 0.1g/kg. The Codex Alimentarius Commission and the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives have set allowable daily intake levels for SO2, which includes the total ADI value of SO2 and sulfites, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and control of Sodium Metabisulfite usage.
The product’s side effects also pose a challenge. Sodium Metabisulfite can cause asthma-like allergies and irritations to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Its residual sulfur dioxide can lead to the formation of sulfite, sulfuric acid, and sulfate on moist mucous membranes, enhancing irritation and inducing respiratory inflammation. As a potential carcinogen, strict control of sulfur dioxide residues in agricultural products is essential to prevent table pollution and protect consumer health.
Lastly, increasing consumer awareness and concerns about food safety present a challenge for the Sodium Metabisulfite market. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious, preferring organic and natural foods over processed ones. This trend towards zero-processed, plant-based, and low-sugar foods challenges the use of Sodium Metabisulfite in food processing, as consumers demand for natural and additive-free products grows.
4 Global Sodium Metabisulfite Market Consumption (K Tons) and Share by Type in 2024
The global Sodium Metabisulfite market is categorized into three distinct types, each with its own specific applications and market demands.
Food Grade Sodium Metabisulfite is anticipated to have a consumption volume of 171.7 K Tons in 2024. This type is characterized by its high purity and adherence to strict safety standards suitable for use in the food industry. It is primarily employed as a preservative to prevent oxidation and microbial growth, an antioxidant to protect nutrients, and an antimicrobial agent to maintain food quality. The Food Grade variety is crucial for extending the shelf life of a wide range of food products, from fresh produce to packaged goods.
Industrial Grade Sodium Metabisulfite, with an expected consumption of 2183.8 K Tons in 2024, is utilized in various chemical processes and industrial applications. This grade is known for its effectiveness as a reducing agent in chemical reactions, a bleaching agent in the pulp and paper industry, and a dechlorinating agent in water treatment. Its versatility in industrial applications makes it a staple in the production of various chemicals, textiles, and in the purification of air and water.
Photo Grade Sodium Metabisulfite is projected to have a consumption of 73 K Tons in 2024. This specific type is used in the photographic industry as an essential component in developer solutions to prevent rapid oxidation of the developer and in fixers to stabilize thiosulfate ions. The Photo Grade ensures the stability and quality of photographic images, making it a critical component in film development and printing processes.
Table Global Sodium Metabisulfite Market Consumption (K Tons) and Share by Type in 2024
Type | Market Consumption (K Tons) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
Food Grade | 171.7 | 7.07% |
Industrial Grade | 2183.8 | 89.92% |
Photo Grade | 73.0 | 3.01% |
5 Global Sodium Metabisulfite Market Consumption (K Tons) and Share by Application in 2024
The Sodium Metabisulfite market is segmented into various applications, each with its own market scale in terms of consumption volume.
Water Treatment: With a consumption of 639.6 K Tons, water treatment remains the dominant application for Sodium Metabisulfite. It is used as an oxygen scavenger and for dechlorination, ensuring water quality in various treatment processes.
Pulp & Paper Industry: This sector is projected to consume 561.3 K Tons, utilizing Sodium Metabisulfite for bleaching processes, which enhances the brightness and strength of paper products.
Textile Industry: The consumption stands at 360.1 K Tons, where Sodium Metabisulfite serves as a bleaching and finishing agent, crucial for the textile manufacturing process.
Mining Industry: At 277.5 K Tons, it is used for cyanide destruction and leaching, playing a vital role in metal extraction and recovery.
Food Industry: With 171.7 K Tons, it is employed as an antioxidant and preservative, prolonging the shelf life of food products and maintaining freshness.
Table Global Sodium Metabisulfite Market Consumption (K Tons) and Share by Application in 2024
Application | Market Consumption (K Tons) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
Water Treatment | 639.6 | 26.34% |
Pulp & Paper Industry | 561.3 | 23.11% |
Textile Industry | 360.1 | 14.83% |
Mining Industry | 277.5 | 11.43% |
Food Industry | 171.7 | 7.07% |
Others | 418.2 | 17.22% |
6 Global Sodium Metabisulfite Market Size and Share by Region in 2024
The global Sodium Metabisulfite market is also characterized by significant regional variations in market value.
Americas: With a market value of $194.20 million USD, the Americas region holds a substantial share, driven by strong demand from the water treatment and food industries.
Asia-Pacific (APAC): The APAC region leads with a market value of $440.92 million USD, reflecting the region’s rapid industrialization and the growth of manufacturing sectors.
Europe: At $143.33 million USD, Europe maintains a significant position, with a mature market focused on high-quality standards and technologically advanced applications.
Middle East & Africa: With a market value of $39.99 million USD, this region is experiencing growth, particularly in the mining and oil field sectors where Sodium Metabisulfite is extensively used.
The development status of Sodium Metabisulfite varies by region. The Americas and Europe have established markets with a focus on innovation and sustainability, while APAC is characterized by rapid growth and industrial expansion. The Middle East & Africa region is emerging, with increasing demand driven by resource extraction and industrial development.
Figure Global Sodium Metabisulfite Market Share by Region in 2024

7 Major Players in Global Sodium Metabisulfite Market
7.1 Kailong Chemical Technolog
Company Profile:
Kailong Chemical Technolog, established in 2005 and headquartered in China, operates worldwide. The company is a subsidiary of Shandong Jiaoya Chemical Co., Ltd. and has achieved ISO9001 certification, KOSHER certification, HALAL certification, and a food additive production license.
Business Overview:
Kailong Chemical Technolog is engaged in the production of local resource chemical products, including calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium formate, soda ash, sulfur, steel, wood, electromechanical products, PVC resin, sodium nitrate, sodium nitrite, food carbon ammonia, concrete water reducer, and more.
Sodium Metabisulfite Type Introduction:
The company offers Sodium Metabisulfite under the chemical formula Na2S2O5, with a molecular weight of 190.10. It appears as a white crystalline powder and is packaged in various forms, including polypropylene woven bags, paper-plastic composite bags, and kraft paper bags lined with polyethylene plastic bags.
2022 Financial Performance:
In 2022, Kailong Chemical Technolog reported a revenue of $64.45 million USD with a gross margin of 21.03%.
7.2 BASF
Company Profile:
BASF, founded in 1865 and headquartered in Germany, is a multinational chemical company with a global presence. It is one of the largest chemical producers in the world, known for its diverse product portfolio.
Business Overview:
BASF’s product range spans six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care, and Agricultural Solutions. The company is a leading supplier of chemical products and operates 194 factories in 29 countries.
Sodium Metabisulfite Type Introduction:
BASF offers Sodium Metabisulfite grades that meet the highest quality standards, used as a reducing agent in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry. It is ideal for bleaching vegetable fibers and textiles, producing solutions for developing photos and films, and treating tanning agents in textile dyeing.
2022 Financial Performance:
In 2022, BASF’s revenue was $64.89 million USD, with a gross margin of 23.69%.
7.3 Jiading Malu Chemical
Company Profile:
Jiading Malu Chemical, established in 1954 and based in China, has a global sales reach. The company focuses on the production of Sodium Metabisulfite, Sodium Bisulfite, and other products, with a strong emphasis on R&D and quality management systems.
Business Overview:
Jiading Malu Chemical specializes in Sodium Metabisulfite for decades, ensuring their products remain competitive in the market by meeting customer needs and providing solutions for various product uses.
Sodium Metabisulfite Type Introduction:
The company’s Sodium Metabisulfite is utilized in the production of hydrosulfite, sulfamethazine, analgin, caprolactam, and more. It is also used in the purification of chloroform, phenylpropyl sulfone, and benzaldehyde, among other applications.
2022 Financial Performance:
In 2022, Jiading Malu Chemical recorded a revenue of $46.46 million USD and a gross margin of 18.51%.