1. Sulfites are present in many foods such as ready meals, pizza, wine and beer. Whilst it acts as a
preservative, it also has health implications for 10 percent of all consumers. Many have minor irritations,
however asthmatics and those who are sensitive to the irritant effect of sulfites can have severe
reactions.
Sulfites are a group of chemical agents added to food, beer and wine that prevent bacterial growth. The
term "sulfites" includes sulfur dioxide and the salts formed from sulfurous acid, such as sodium sulfite or
potassium metabisulfite. In the mass production of wine it is also used to prevent browning of white
wines and to quickly end fermentation. Other foods high in sulfite are dried fruits, pizza, oven chips, jam,
seafood products and processed meats. One in 10 people will have some reaction to sulfites with
reactions ranging from rashes and itching to restricted breathing, asthmatic attacks, hives and
anaphylactic shock.
The best test for sensitivity to sulfites is a "challenge" test in which the patient is taken to hospital and
sprayed with sulfur dioxide or given a sulfite solution. Their reaction is then carefully monitored as the
reaction can be severe, and the patient may need resuscitation. Another way to test is to eat dried
apricots, as they have high levels of sulfur dioxide, if there is a reaction, there is a good chance of
sensitivity. However if there is a belief that the patient is highly sensitive to sulfites, they should avoid
any high sulfite foods unless under medical supervision. People with a sensitivity to sulfites should also
avoid general anesthetic, as the adrenaline shots used if things go wrong contain sulfite preservatives.