| Sulphite sensitivity | 1993.00000000000 | Sulphite sensitivity | Sulphite sensitivity | S | English | Allergy | Child (0-12 years);Teen (13-18 years) | Body | Immune system | Conditions and diseases | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2010-02-18T05:00:00Z | | Vivian Cornelius, RD;Andrew James, MBChB, FRACP, FRCPC | | | | 8.00000000000000 | 59.2000000000000 | 756.000000000000 | | Flat Content | Health A-Z | <p>Sulphites are a common food additive and food allergy. Learn what to do if your child has a sulphite sensitivity.<br></p> | <h2>What are sulphites?</h2><p>Sulphites, or sulfites, are chemical compounds that stop bacterial growth and preserve the colour of foods. Sulphites are safe for most people, but they are one of the most common substances that cause food sensitivity.</p><h2>Sulphite sensitivity</h2><p>Sulphite sensitivity is a reaction to the sulphite chemical compound. It is not a true allergic reaction. An allergic reaction occurs when the body's immune system reacts to a protein found in food. A reaction to sulphites is a sensitivity since sulphites contain no protein.</p><p>Children sensitive to sulphites can have symptoms like:</p><ul><li>nausea</li><li>abdominal pain</li><li><a href="/Article?contentid=7&language=English">diarrhea</a></li><li>seizures</li><li><a href="/Article?contentid=785&language=English">asthma</a></li></ul><p>A serious life-threatening reaction, <a href="/article?contentid=781&language=English">anaphylactic shock</a>, can also occur.<br></p><p>Sulphites can also irritate the lungs, causing asthma-like symptoms. The cause of the reaction is not entirely known. People with severe or poorly controlled asthma are more likely to react to sulphites.</p> | | <h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>Sulphites are a common food additive.</li><li>Sulphites are a common cause of food sensitivity.</li><li>Many processed foods contain sulphites.</li><li>Always read food labels and practice good hygiene to avoid a sulphite reaction.<br></li></ul> | <h2>Foods to avoid by children with sulphite sensitivity</h2><p>Sulphites are added to many foods, drinks and some medicines. They are used in very small amounts so people cannot see or taste them. </p><p>Many processed or cooked foods may contain added sulphites. If your child is sensitive to sulphites, always read the ingredient list on the foods you serve. </p><h3>Sulphites have different names and forms</h3><p>On packaged food, look for any sulphite warning or the following ingredients:</p><table class="akh-table"><tbody><tr><td>sulphur dioxide</td><td>sodium sulphite</td></tr><tr><td>sodium bisulphite</td><td>sodium metabisulphite</td></tr><tr><td>potassium metabisulphite</td><td>calcium sulphite</td></tr><tr><td>calcium and bisulphite</td><td>potassium bisulphite</td></tr><tr><td>sulphiting agent</td><td>sulphurous acid</td></tr><tr><td colspan="2">E 220, E 221, E 222, E 223, E 224, E 225, E 226, E 227, E 228 (European names)</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Sulphites are banned or regulated in many countries. Also, many countries now have new labeling regulations to help sulphite sensitive people make safer food choices. </p><p>Examples of foods that may contain added sulphites:</p><ul><li>Baked goods and starches, such as breads, cookies, cereals or cornstarch </li><li>Bottled lemon or lime juice, or concentrate </li><li>Canned frozen fruit or vegetables </li><li>Cereals </li><li>Condiments such as ketchup, relish or jam </li><li>Dressings, gravies and sauces </li><li>Dried fruits and vegetables, such as apricots, coconut or sun-dried tomatoes </li><li>Dried spices, teas or herbs </li><li>Fish and shellfish </li><li>Gelatin </li><li>Grapes and lettuce </li><li>Maraschino cherries </li><li>Prepared drinks, such as instant tea or grape juice </li><li>Processed foods, such as mincemeat, hot dogs, deli meats or cheese </li><li>Processed potatoes, including dehydrated, pre-cut or peeled potatoes </li><li>Snacks such as candy, chips or trail mix </li><li>Soup mixes </li><li>Sugar syrups or molasses </li><li>Vinegar </li></ul><p>Some fresh fruits and vegetables contain sulphites. For example, grapes and lettuce may be sprayed with sulphites to keep them fresh. Sulphites can also occur naturally in foods such as wine, beer and apple cider. </p><h3>Eating out with a sulphite sensitivity</h3><p>When eating out with your sulphite-sensitive child, always ask if any sulphites were used preparing the dish. Sometimes restaurants add sulphites to fruit or salads to preserve freshness and colour. As a precaution, sulphite-sensitive people should avoid eating at buffets. </p><h3>Medicine and sulphite sensitivity</h3><p>Some medicines may also contain sulphites. Always check the ingredients of all medicines. Let your pharmacist know about your child's sensitivity to sulphites.<br></p><h2>Avoiding cross contamination with sulphites</h2><p>Cross contamination can occur when the same kitchen utensils, dishes or containers are used preparing food containing sulphites with food that does not. Food bought in bulk, buffets and unwrapped candies are more likely to be cross-contaminated with sulphites. </p><p>Cross-contamination can also happen when sharing food, utensils, straws or drinking glasses. Your child and your family should practice good hygiene by washing your hands, face and mouth regularly, especially after eating.</p><h2>A balanced diet without sulphites </h2><p>Eat fresh foods. Since processed and prepared foods may contain sulphites, avoid processed foods. If processed food is eaten, choose foods that have "no additives added". It is very important to read the ingredient list every time you buy a product, since ingredients may change without notice. </p><p>Help your child enjoy a variety of foods and a balanced diet by being careful and reading food labels. If in doubt about any ingredient in a product, contact the manufacturer and do not let your child eat the food at that time. If your child carries an EpiPen, do not let them eat if the EpiPen is not handy.<br></p> | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | <h2>Helpful resources on sulphite sensitivity</h2><ul><li>
<a href="http://www.inspection.gc.ca/food/information-for-consumers/fact-sheets-and-infographics/food-allergies/eng/1332442914456/1332442980290" target="_blank">Canadian Food Inspection Agency</a></li><li>
<a href="http://www.inspection.gc.ca/food/information-for-consumers/fact-sheets-and-infographics/food-allergies/eng/1332442914456/1332442980290" target="_blank">Anaphylaxis Canada</a><br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | Sulphite sensitivity | | False | | | | | |
