Sulfite

An estimated 5% of patients with asthma are sulfite sensitive. Following sensitization, type-I immediate hypersensitivity reactions occur after ingestion. Reactions in asthmatics may occur without evidence of type-I, Ig-E mediation. Patients may present with one or more of the following: flushing, fainting, sneezing, urticaria, angioedema, abdominal distress, bronchospasm, and anaphylaxis. [Ellenhorn, p. 1074] Occupational asthma confirmed in a water plant worker and food workers exposed to sulfites in dust or solution used as a preservative; [Malo] Metabisulfites are preservatives used in wines, salad bars, fruits, juices, and shrimp. Onset of symptoms is within minutes. Common symptoms are flushing, low blood pressure, and bronchospasm. [Goldfrank, p. 676] Sulfites are among the drugs and toxins that cause bronchospasm (Table I-3) and anaphylactoid-like reactions (Table I-17). [Olson, p. 8, 28] Sulfites are not classifiable as to carcinogenicity to humans. [IARC] See Potassium metabisulfite for a documented case of occupational asthma. See agents in the category, Sulfites.

Sulfites

Group 3: Not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans

Volume 54: (1992) Occupational Exposures to Mists and Vapours from Strong Inorganic Acids; and Other Industrial Chemicals

1992

1991

Used as preservatives in foods, beverages, and medications; Drugs containing sulfites may include parenteral steroids, antibiotics, cardiovascular drugs, and other intravenous medications; also peritoneal dialysis solutions, local anesthetics, radiocontrast dyes, and other drugs; Sulfites used as preservatives include sulfur dioxide, potassium metabisulfite, sodium sulfite, sodium metabisulfite, sodium bisulfite, and potassium bisulfite. [Ellenhorn, p. 1074]

In 1987, the FDA withdrew approval for the use of sulfites in fresh vegetables. Prescription drugs containing sulfites and packaged foods containing sulfites >10 ppm must be labeled. [Ellenhorn, p. 1074]