Sulphites in food & drinks in asthmatic adults & children: What we need to know

Abstract

Sulfites are commonly used preservatives and additives in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Many people develop adverse reactions to them which may vary from mild skin rash to life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. However, asthma exacerbation is the most commonly linked problem. The possibility of sulfite sensitivity should be considered when individuals demonstrate asthma symptoms following the consumption of sulfite-containing foods (such as dried fruits and wines in adults and packaged food in children such as biscuits, chips, and packaged drinks) or adverse skin reactions following the use of cosmetics or medicated creams. In fact, many of the mild-to-moderate asthma cases in children can be cured by just avoiding the packaged/preserved/processed food and beverages. Food that has no additives at all is to be preferred particularly if it is to be consumed by children. It is best to eat a preservative-free diet if at all possible by adults as well if required natural food preservatives should be used.

Keywords

• asthma
• preservatives
• sulfites