Sulfite
Also known as: Sulphites, sulphite, sulfites
FDA prohibits sulfites on fresh fruits/vegetables intended to be served raw and requires declaration when ≥10 ppm in finished food. Sulfites can trigger severe asthma/anaphylactic reactions in sensitive individuals (about 1 in 100 asthmatics).
What it is
Class of sulfur-containing preservatives including sulfur dioxide and salts (sodium/potassium bisulfite, metabisulfite, sulfite).
Preservative, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and color stabilizer.
Why it's flagged
- asthma trigger in sensitive individuals
- labeling required at ≥10 ppm
What regulators actually say
"Sulfiting agents that are present at 10 ppm or greater... must be declared on the label as ingredients."
"Follow-up of the re-evaluation of sulfur dioxide (E 220), sodium sulfite (E 221)... and other sulfites."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Allowed with restrictions; banned on raw fruits/vegetables; declaration required at ≥10 ppm (21 CFR 101.100(a)(4)).
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as E 220–E 228 with use limits; EFSA expressed concerns about high consumer exposures.
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