Allergies: Sulphite sensitivity

Sulphites are a group of sulphur-based compounds that may occur naturally or may be added to food as an enhancer and preservative. A person can develop sensitivity to sulphites at any time in life, and the cause of sensitivity is unknown. For a person who is sensitive to sulphites, a reaction can be mild or life threatening.

Although sulphites 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 sulphites is the only way to prevent a reaction. If you are sensitive to sulphites, be sure to read the labels on all food items. When eating out, ask the chef or waiter if sulphites are used or added to food before or during preparation.

Examples of foods that may contain sulphites include:

• Baked goods
• Soup mixes
• Jams
• Canned vegetables
• Pickled foods
• Gravies
• Dried fruit
• Potato crisps
• Beer and wine
• Vegetable juices
• Sparkling grape juice
• Apple cider
• Bottled lemon juice and lime juice
• Tea
• Many condiments
• Molasses
• Fresh or frozen prawns
• Guacamole
• Maraschino cherries
• Dehydrated, pre-cut or peeled potatoes

Sulphite-containing ingredients to look for on food labels include:

• Sulphur dioxide
• Potassium bisulphite or potassium metabisulphite
• Sodium bisulphite, sodium metabisulphite or sodium sulphite