Gourt Home::Gourt :: Sulfite
Sulfites (also sulphite) are compounds that contain the sulfite ion SO32−. They are often used as preservatives in wines (to prevent spoilage and oxidation), dried fruits, and dried potato products.
Sulfites occur naturally in almost all wines. In the US, those bottled after mid-1987 must have a label stating that they contain sulfites if they contain more than 10 parts per million. In the EU an equivalent regulation came into force in November 2005 *. Organic wines are not necessarily sulfite-free. Most beers no longer contain sulfites. Although shrimp is sometimes treated with sulfites on fishing vessels, the chemical may not appear on the label. In 1985, the United States federal government banned the addition of sulfites to most fresh fruits and vegetables, though fresh-cut potatoes and dried fruits are exceptions.
See Sulfites for a list of sulfites.
Health risks
Some people are allergic to sulfites, and may have difficulty breathing within minutes of eating a food containing sulfites. Asthmatics and people with allergies to aspirin are at an elevated risk for reaction to sulfites. The reaction can be fatal and requires immediate treatment at an emergency room, and can include sneezing, swelling of the throat, and hives. Those who are allergic to sulfites are urged to avoid products that could contain them.
See also: anaphylaxis.
Chemical properties
SO32− is a polyatomic ion, in which more than one atom are bonded together to form a charged species, which most often is treated as, in effect, a charged molecule. SO32− is also an oxoanion, which refers to a polyatomic ion which contains one or more oxygen atoms.
MD 20/20 is known historically for containing sulfites.
Oxoanion Sulfides
External links
- Food allergies rare but risky (Food and Drug Administration)
- Is there any danger from sulfites in wine? (The Straight Dope)
- Sulfite Sensitivity (about.com)
Sulfit | Sulfite | Sulfito | Sulfite | Sulfiet | Сулфит | Sulfit
"Sulfite"