what are sulphites in food

Sulphites are substances that can occur naturally in some foods and are also used as a food additive to preserve food and maintain its color and shelf-life. They are also used in the pharmaceutical industry. Sulphites can cause allergic-like symptoms in some individuals, but they do not cause true allergic reactions. Sulphite-sensitive individuals may react to sulphites with allergy-like symptoms. In Canada, sulphites must be listed on the package label, and sulphite-containing products are clearly labeled. Some common sources of sulphites in food include alcoholic/non-alcoholic beer, cider, wine, baked goods, canned/frozen fruits and vegetables, and vinegar. Sulphites can also have many other names, such as sulfur dioxide, sulphiting agents, and E numbers. If you have a sulphite sensitivity, you can prevent a reaction by avoiding all food and products with sulphites.