Sodium Metabisulfite Antioxidant Mechanism

Sodium metabisulfite acts as an antioxidant by undergoing oxidation itself, thereby preventing the oxidation of other molecules. Specifically, the compound reacts with oxygen to form sulfite and sulfate ions, as well as with free radicals to form stable sulfur-containing compounds. This process effectively scavenges free radicals and prevents them from damaging other molecules through oxidation reactions. Additionally, sodium metabisulfite can chelate metal ions, which can generate free radicals, further contributing to its antioxidant activity. Overall, sodium metabisulfite's antioxidant mechanism involves both direct scavenging of free radicals and prevention of radical-generating reactions through chelation of metal ions.