Sulfite sensitivity
Sulfites are a group of sulfur-based compounds that may occur naturally or may be added to food as an enhancer and preservative. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimates that one out of 100 people is sensitive to the compounds. A person can develop sensitivity to sulfites at any time in life, and the cause of sensitivity is unknown. For a person who is sensitive to sulfites, a reaction can be life-threatening (anaphylaxis).

In 1986, the FDA banned the use of sulfites on fruits and vegetables that are eaten raw—such as lettuce or apples—as well as on fresh meat and poultry products. Regulations also require manufacturers who use sulfites in their processed products to list the compounds on their product labels.

Although sulfites are no longer used on most fresh foods, they still can be found in a variety of cooked and processed foods. They also occur naturally in the process of making wine and beer.

Avoiding foods that contain or are likely to contain sulfites is the only way to prevent a reaction. If you are sensitive to sulfites, be sure to read the labels on all food items. When eating out, ask the chef or server if sulfites are used or added to food before or during preparation.

Examples of foods that may contain sulfites

* Baked goods
* Soup mixes
* Jams
* Canned vegetables
* Pickled foods
* Gravies
* Dried fruit
* Potato chips
* Trail mix
* Alcohol, beer and wine
* Vegetable juices
* Canned or frozen fruits and vegetables
* Sparkling grape juice
* Apple cider
* Bottled lemon juice and lime juice
* Tea
* Many condiments
* Molasses
* Fresh or frozen shrimp
* Guacamole
* Maraschino cherries
* Dehydrated, pre-cut or peeled potatoes

Ingredients to look for:

* Sulfur dioxide
* Potassium bisulfite or potassium metabisulfite
* Sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite or sodium sulfite

from;
www.clevelandclinic.org/health...987.asp