Sodium Sulfite

Definition

A type of sulfite used as a preservative to help maintain the appearance of freshness in food products.

Health Impact

Can inhibit the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, leading to other diseases. Some people are sensitive to sulfites and can have serious reactions to them ranging from wheezing to potentially life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. As a result, sulfites should be avoided by anyone with a sulfite allergy or sensitivity. People with asthma have between a 1 in 20 to 1 in 100 chance to having a sulfite reaction.

Sources

• Sulfites inhibit the growth of four species of beneficial gut bacteria at concentrations regarded as safe for food

  PLOS One

• Sodium Sulfite

  Pub Chem

• Sulfite Sensitivity

  Cleveland Clinic

Products containing Sodium Sulfite

Better Options Available

Mott's Llp

100% Lemon Juice

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Wal-mart Stores, Inc.

Honey Graham Crackers

Better Options Available

Mott's Llp

100% Juice From Concentrate, Lemon