Sulphite Intolerance Loanne Allen B.Sc., Grad. Dip. Diet & Nutr., MDAA


SULPHITES
Are usually used as a preservative in various foods and drinks. They will have no ill harm unless you are sensitive to them and develop an intolerance.
After absorption of sulphites, they are rapidly metabolised to sulphate by the enzyme sulphite oxidase, which is malfunctioning in individuals with sulphite sensitivity.
There are 6 sulphur agents:
· 220 sulphur dioxide
· 221 sodium sulphite
· 222 sodium bisulphite
· 223 sodium metabisulphite
· 224 potassium metabisulphite
· 228 potassium bisulphite

Look for these numbers and read all labels and drug instructions closely, as many drugs have metabisulphite as a preservative: including some antihistamines, adrenaline, cortisone and some nebulizer solutions for asthma.
Note: An intolerance or sensitivity to a substance is very different to an allergy. An allergy is a reaction to a protein molecule and is not dose related. The smallest amount will lead to an autoimmune elicited response to what the body perceives as a foreign, undesirable protein molecule. An intolerance to a substance, such as a preservative, an artificial colour, or a flavouring (eg. MSG), is dose and frequency related. There is usually a build up effect until you reach your tolerance level and then you will have a reaction.

FOOD & DRINKS THAT CAN CONTAIN SULPHITES

DRINKS
Commercial bottled drinks containing soft drinks (soda) or fruit juice, cordials, cider, beer, champagne, wines, particularly cask wines (sweet 35mg/glass, dry 10-15mg/glass)

FRUIT
Dried tree fruits such as apples, apricots, pears (not raisins, sultanas, currants or prunes), fruit bars, (fresh fruit salad from commercial outlets may have metabisulphites added to maintain fresh appearance)

VEGETABLES
Dried vegetables, instant mashed potato, Sauerkraut, pickles, commercially prepared potatoes, some potato crisps and fresh mushrooms

MEAT/FISH/POULTRY
Braun, chicken loaf, devon, frankfurters, sausages, sausages mince, some prawns and shellfish

DAIRY PRODUCTS
Fruit, Yoghurt, cheese pastes

OTHERS
Dessert, toppings, flavouring essences, jams, vinegar, vinegar-containing items (salad dressings, sauces, relish), pizza, sweet pastries, some crackers and cookies. Also used in the processing of gelatine, beet sugar, corn sweeteners and food starches.