Janet Galpin wrote:

I presume Sodium metabisulphite is fairly harmless but wouldn't qualify as organic. What would organic wine-makers use to sterilise their equipment?

Janet G

Fairly harmless??

Not according to the chemical industry.

SAFETY DATA SHEET
SODIUM METABISULPHITE Page 1
Issued: 25/09/2002
Revision No: 1
1. IDENTIFICATION OF THE SUBSTANCE / PREPARATION AND OF THE COMPANY /
UNDERTAKING
Product name: SODIUM METABISULPHITE

Use / description of product: Harmful.

3. HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION
Main hazards: Harmful if swallowed. Risk of serious damage to eyes.
4. FIRST AID MEASURES (SYMPTOMS)
Skin contact: There may be mild irritation at the site of contact.
Eye contact: There may be irritation and redness.
Ingestion: There may be soreness and redness of the mouth and throat.
There may be difficulty
swallowing. Nausea and stomach pain may occur. There may be vomiting.
Inhalation: Absorption through the lungs can occur causing symptoms
similar to those of ingestion.
4. FIRST AID MEASURES (ACTION)
Skin contact: Wash immediately with plenty of soap and water.
Eye contact: Bathe the eye with running water for 15 minutes.
Ingestion: Wash out mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting. If
conscious, give half a litre of water to
drink immediately. Transfer to hospital as soon as possible.
Inhalation: Remove casualty from exposure ensuring one's own safety
whilst doing so. Consult a doctor.