Sodium
Sulfite – Food Preservative
Sulfites are food
additives that help preserve freshness. Sodium sulfites in particular were
commonly added to fresh produce and meats to help retain color. Sulfites in processed foods help to maintain color,
prolong shelf life and prevent microorganism growth. Sodium
sulfite, sodium bisulfite and sodium metabisulfite are part of a family of
sulfites that have antioxidant properties that manufacturers add to foods and
beverages to prevent oxidation -- a chemical process that spoils food.
Meat & Seafood
Deli meats, hot dogs and sausages contain sulfites. Fish and
seafood with sulfites include canned clams, all types of shrimp, frozen
lobster, scallops and dried cod.
Fruits
Dried fruits often contain sulfites to preserve their color.
Fruit products that contain sulfites include canned, bottled and frozen fruit
juices, glazed fruits, fruit toppings and maraschino cherries.
Vegetables
Vegetable juice, canned and dried vegetables, pickled
vegetables, instant mashed potatoes, frozen potatoes and canned tomato products
often contain sulfites.
Beverages
Most alcohols have sulfites,
which are produced during the fermentation process. Instant tea, tea
concentrates and cider also contain sulfites.
Population at Risk
Most sulfite reactions occur in people with asthma, according to
a 1995 study in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition."
Reactions in people without asthma are "extremely rare."
Foods to Avoid
Always read food labels to
make sure the food is free of sulfites -- if the food item is sold in bulk, ask the seller to check
the stock package for sulfite listings. Pay special attention to dried fruits
and wines -- these are the most common foods preserved with sulfites.
Asthmatics should always have their inhalers at hand when at restaurants.
Because sulfites are still used on cut potatoes, don't order French fries or
hash browns. A baked potato is a safer option, because it isn't cut until after
cooking, eliminating the need for a sodium sulfite preservative.
Homemade foods prepared
by a housewife are always your best choice! Don’t eat something that is not good
for your body and your health especially foods with preservative that might
cause cancer.
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