Introduction
Sulfites are a type of preservative used in many foods and drinks. They are added to help preserve the color, flavor, and texture of food and drinks. Sulfites are also used to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, and to prevent spoilage. While sulfites are generally considered safe, some people may be sensitive to them and experience adverse reactions. In this article, we’ll discuss what sulfites are, why they’re in your food, and how to identify and avoid them.
What Are Sulfites? And Why They’re in Your Food
Sulfites are a type of preservative used in many foods and drinks. They are added to prevent spoilage and discoloration, and to extend shelf life. Sulfites are also used to enhance flavor and texture. They are found in a variety of foods, including dried fruits, wines, and processed foods.
Sulfites are a type of sulfur-based compound. They are made up of sulfur, oxygen, and hydrogen atoms. Sulfites are used in food processing to prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. They also help to preserve the color and flavor of food.
Sulfites are generally considered safe for most people. However, some people may be sensitive to sulfites and may experience allergic reactions. Symptoms of a sulfite allergy can include hives, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. People with asthma may be more likely to have a reaction to sulfites.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that foods containing sulfites must be labeled as such. This includes foods that contain sulfites in concentrations of 10 parts per million (ppm) or more. Common foods that contain sulfites include dried fruits, wines, and processed foods.
It is important to note that sulfites are not the same as sulfates. Sulfates are a type of salt that is found naturally in some foods and drinks. They are not considered to be a health risk.
If you are sensitive to sulfites, it is important to read food labels carefully. Avoid foods that contain sulfites, and look for alternatives that do not contain sulfites. If you are unsure whether a food contains sulfites, contact the manufacturer for more information.
If you tend to experience ugly side effects after drinking wine, we may know what’s causing such an inconvenient and unpleasant reaction. It turns out the culprit may be something called sulfites. What are sulfites?
“Sulfites are added to foods and drinks to slow them from becoming discolored or losing their flavor,” says Nutrition expert Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD, CLEC.
Although sulfites can apparently benefit the items that end up on our dinner table, Manaker notes that “while many people can include sulfites in their diet with no negative side effects, others can really feel some disruptive symptoms” due to sulfites. Research published by the Gastroenterology and Hepatology from Bed to Bench journal points out that sulfites can lead to a number of “adverse reactions.” Indeed, if you happen to be sensitive to sulfites, then you can find yourself dealing with dermatitis, urticaria, flushing, hypotension, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, as well as even more serious issues such as life-threatening anaphylactic and asthmatic reactions.
How can you tell if sulfites are causing your problems? “People can tell if they are sensitive to sulfites rather quickly. If they notice they are experiencing these side effects after drinking wine, dried fruit that contains sulfites, certain sodas, and other sulfite-containing foods,” Manaker says. “Health care providers can confirm sulfite sensitivity by a challenge—sulfite is given to a person in increasing concentrations until a reaction is observed.”
When it comes to avoiding sulfites, Manaker notes that you can be “mindful” of what you’re putting in your body. “Many red wines contain lower levels of sulfites compared to other wine varieties. People should also watch out for surprising sulfite sources, like certain supplements. Opting for those that indicate that they are sulfite-free can be their best bet.” Beyond that, Manaker adds that dried fruits, sauerkraut, maraschino cherries, and white grape juice are examples of foods and drinks that should be avoided when trying to stay away from sulfites.
Sign up for our newsletter!