About Sulfites

Sulfites are chemicals that are often used to preserve some foods and drinks. They are also used in some medicines and cosmetics.

Safety

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) labels sulfites as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). But, there are limits on how they can be used. The FDA does not allow them on the raw veggies that are found at salad bars. This is because sulfites would make them look fresh when they might not be. The FDA also requires that sulfites be listed on the labels of food, drinks, and medicines. They did so after reports of people having allergic-like reactions after eating or drinking a product that contained sulfites.

Sulfite Sensitivity

The number of people who are sensitive to sulfites is low. People with asthma seem to be at higher risk.

Mild to severe problems after consuming or applying a product with sulfites may be:

• Skin problems—itchy skin, rash, and hives
• Digestive problems—stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Breathing problems—wheezing, cough, and tightness in the chest

Rarely, a deadly reaction called anaphylactic shock may happen.

How It is Diagnosed

A doctor who treats allergies can diagnose a sulfite sensitivity with a food challenge. This means giving the person a small amount of sulfites and watching for a reaction. If the person does not have a reaction, the amount they are given will slowly be increased. If the person does have a reaction, medicine will be given to treat it. Tests will also be done to check lung function. A food challenge should only be done by a doctor who treats allergies.

Avoiding Sulfites

A person who is sensitive to sulfates should do their best to try to avoid them. This can be hard, since they are common in many foods and come in lots of forms.

Here are some ways to live sulfite-free.