Understanding the Side Effects of Sodium Bisulfite in Food

January 7, 2026 •

3 min read

According to the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, an estimated 3 to 10% of people with asthma may experience adverse reactions to sulfites, a family of additives that includes sodium bisulfite. For sensitive individuals, understanding the potential side effects of sodium bisulfite in food is crucial for managing their health and avoiding unwanted symptoms.

Quick Summary

This article explores the adverse reactions some individuals may have to the preservative sodium bisulfite. It details common symptoms, identifies high-risk populations like asthmatics, and provides guidance on reading labels to avoid sulfite exposure.

Key Points

Respiratory Issues: Sodium bisulfite can trigger asthma attacks, wheezing, and coughing, especially in individuals with pre-existing asthma.
Allergic-Like Symptoms: It may cause hives, skin rashes, and swelling in sensitive individuals, mimicking a true allergic reaction.
Digestive Problems: Ingesting sulfites can lead to gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, cramping, and diarrhea.
Anaphylaxis Risk: Though very rare, severe reactions like anaphylaxis can occur in highly sensitive people, requiring immediate medical attention.
Label Awareness: Reading food labels for sodium bisulfite and other sulfites (E220-E228) is crucial for avoidance.
Regulation and Bans: The FDA requires sulfite labeling above 10 ppm and banned its use on fresh produce due to health concerns.

Sodium bisulfite, a member of the sulfite family, is a chemical additive widely used in the food and beverage industry. It serves as a preservative, antioxidant, and anti-browning agent, extending the shelf life and maintaining the visual appeal of many processed products. While regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA have deemed it safe for consumption for the general population within set limits, it can cause significant adverse reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly those with asthma.

Respiratory Side Effects: A Major Concern for Asthmatics

One of the most frequently reported side effects associated with sodium bisulfite is the triggering of respiratory symptoms, especially in individuals with pre-existing asthma. The mechanism is often linked to the release of sulfur dioxide gas from sulfites, which can irritate and constrict the airways. These reactions can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on the individual's sensitivity and the severity of their asthma.

Common respiratory symptoms triggered by sulfites include:

Wheezing and chest tightness: This is a hallmark symptom for asthmatics with sulfite sensitivity.
Coughing and shortness of breath: These symptoms can appear shortly after consuming sulfite-containing foods or beverages.
Nasal congestion: Some individuals may also experience hay fever-like symptoms, such as a runny or stuffy nose.

Allergic and Allergic-Like Reactions

For some people, exposure to sodium bisulfite can trigger a broader range of allergic or allergic-like symptoms. While true IgE-mediated sulfite allergies are rare, sulfite sensitivity can mimic many allergic responses. These can affect various parts of the body and manifest with varying severity.

Skin, digestive, and cardiovascular symptoms:

Skin reactions: Hives, itching, flushing, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue are common dermatological responses. In some cases, contact dermatitis can occur from exposure to sulfite-containing products, though less often from food.
Gastrointestinal distress: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, cramps, and diarrhea can result from ingesting sulfites.
Anaphylaxis: In extremely rare and severe cases, a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction can occur. Symptoms may include a severe drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or collapse.

The Difference Between Sulfite Sensitivity and a True Allergy

It is important to differentiate between a sulfite sensitivity and a true, IgE-mediated allergy. While both can cause adverse reactions, the underlying mechanism and management differ. Sensitivity reactions are more common and are often tied to respiratory issues in asthmatics, whereas true allergies involve the immune system and are extremely rare.

How to Manage Sodium Bisulfite Side Effects

For those who suspect they have a sulfite sensitivity, the most effective strategy is avoidance.

Reading Food Labels: The FDA requires that sulfites be listed on food labels if the concentration is 10 parts per million (ppm) or higher. Be aware that sulfites may appear under several names:

Sodium bisulfite (E222)
Sodium sulfite (E221)
Sodium metabisulfite (E223)
Potassium bisulfite (E228)
Potassium metabisulfite (E224)
Sulfur dioxide (E220)

Common foods containing sulfites include:

Dried fruits and vegetables
Wines and beers
Vinegars
Certain fruit juices and soft drinks
Some potato products (fries, dehydrated)
Condiments and gravies

It is also worth noting that the FDA banned the use of sulfites on fresh fruits and vegetables sold raw to consumers in the 1980s, which reduced severe reactions from salad bars. For further guidance, consulting an allergist or healthcare provider is highly recommended.

Conclusion

While sodium bisulfite is a functional preservative for many foods, its side effects pose a real and sometimes severe risk to sensitive individuals, particularly those with asthma. Awareness of common symptoms—ranging from respiratory distress and skin reactions to gastrointestinal upset—is the first step toward effective management. For those affected, diligently reading food labels and exploring alternatives are essential strategies. By understanding the potential health implications, consumers can make informed choices to protect their well-being. For a comprehensive overview of sulfites, their uses, and health effects, refer to sources like the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sodium bisulfite is used as a food preservative, antioxidant, and anti-browning agent to extend the shelf life and maintain the color and freshness of many processed foods and beverages, such as dried fruit and wine.

Individuals with asthma are most at risk for experiencing adverse reactions to sulfites. It is estimated that between 3% and 10% of asthmatics are sulfite-sensitive.

Yes, while very rare, sulfites can cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis in highly sensitive individuals. Symptoms can include severe difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.

Common food sources of sulfites include dried fruits, wines and beers, some fruit juices, canned vegetables, and certain baked goods.

Under FDA regulations, if sulfites are present in a concentration of 10 ppm or more, they must be declared on the food label. Look for ingredients like sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, and sulfur dioxide.

Yes, while the vast majority of severe sulfite reactions occur in asthmatics, people without asthma can also experience adverse effects. Symptoms might include skin issues, digestive problems, or headaches.

No, sulfites cannot be effectively removed from food by washing or cooking. For sulfite-sensitive individuals, the only management strategy is to avoid foods containing these additives.