Key Concepts
Sulfites are frequently used food and drug additives.
Ingestion of sulfite residues has been documented to trigger asthmatic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Sulfite-induced asthma occurs in less than 5% of asthmatic individuals, and those with severe, persistent asthma are at greatest risk.
The diagnosis of sulfite-induced asthma is best made by blinded oral challenge with assessment of lung function.
Labeling regulations in the United States alert sulfite-sensitive individuals to the presence of sulfites in foods, which must then be avoided
