He came with sulphites – Know the possible effects of sulfite additives in wine and how they can affect their health

With regard to wine, a common term that usually raises discussions are sulphites. Sulfites are compounds that are naturally found in all wines and that perform various functions in the elaboration process. However, they have also drawn attention to possible health problems associated with their consumption. To really understand the impact of sulphites on wine, it is important to deepen their meaning, prevalence and effects on people.

The sulphites in wine: an essential component

Vinicularisters have been using sulphites as natural preservatives in the elaboration of wine. Sulfur dioxide (SO2), a common sulfite, helps prevent oxidation and microbial deterioration, guaranteeing the stability and longevity of wine. Inhibits unwanted bacteria and yeasts and prevents wine from becoming vinegar.

It should be noted that sulphites are not only added during production, but they are also a natural byproduct of fermentation. During fermentation, yeast converts sugar into alcohol and produces sulfur dioxide. This means that all wines are added or not sulphites, contain a certain level of sulphites. However, there is an erroneous concept about the association between sulphites and adverse health reactions.

Is Wine with Sulfites Safe to Drink?

The role of sulphites in wine

Sulfites, such as sulfur dioxide, play an important role in the elaboration of wine. They act as antioxidants and antimicrobial agents, guaranteeing the stability and longevity of the wine. Without sulphites, wine can easily spoil and develop unpleasant flavors. Therefore, winemakers usually add sulphites to protect the quality and taste of the final product.

“Sulfites act as antioxidants and antimicrobial agents in the wine, ensuring their stability and preventing it from spoiling.”

Possible health problems

Although in general it is considered that sulphites are safe for most people, there are specific health problems associated with their consumption. Some people can be sensitive or allergic to sulphites and experience symptoms such as headaches, respiratory difficulties or skin reactions. In addition, people with asthma are more likely to suffer adverse reactions to sulphites, since their airways can be more sensitive to the compound.

1. People with sulfite sensitivity or asthma may experience adverse reactions to wine with sulfites.

To minimize health risks, regulatory bodies have established strict guidelines for sulfite levels in wine. In the United States, wines containing more than 10 parts per million (ppm) of sulfites must be labeled “contains sulfites.”This helps people with sulfite sensitivity or asthma make informed decisions about their wine consumption.

Understanding Sulfites in Wine: What Are They?

Sulfites are a group of sulfur compounds, mainly sulfites (SO2), sulfates (SO4) and sulfur dioxide (S2O). They are produced naturally during the fermentation process as a byproduct of yeast metabolism. Additionally, winemakers can add sulfites in the form of sulfur dioxide gas or potassium metabisulfite to prevent bacterial growth, oxidation, and to stabilize the wine.

• Sulfites act as antioxidants, preventing the darkening and deterioration of the wine.
• They inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and yeasts that can spoil wine.
• Sulfites help preserve the fruity flavors and aromas of the wine.

Important: It is estimated that only about 1% of the population is sensitive to sulfites, and most people can consume foods and drinks with sulfites without adverse effects. However, if you have a known sensitivity or asthma, it is recommended to exercise caution when consuming wines with sulfites.

Although sulfites are generally considered safe to consume, some people may experience adverse reactions. Sensitivity to sulfites can manifest as respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, or asthma attacks. Rarely, hypersensitivity to sulfites can cause a serious allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.

If you suspect you have a sensitivity to sulfites, it is essential that you consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. They can guide you through the treatment of your condition and help you identify the right foods and drinks for your individual needs.

The Role of Sulfites in the Winemaking Process

Preservatives and antioxidants: Sulfites, in the form of sulfur dioxide (SO2), act as preservatives in wine production, inhibiting the growth of unwanted microorganisms, such as bacteria and yeast. They also exert an antioxidant effect, delaying the oxidation process and protecting the wine from deterioration. By preventing the proliferation of harmful organisms and minimizing oxidation, sulfites play a fundamental role in ensuring the quality and stability of wines.

Sulfites, in the form of sulfur dioxide (SO2), act as preservatives in the elaboration of wine inhibiting the growth of unwanted microorganisms, such as bacteria and yeasts. They also exert an antioxidant effect, delaying the oxidation process and protecting the wine from deterioration.

Regulation and labeling: The use of sulphites in the elaboration of the wine is regulated by various national and international food safety authorities. In many countries, including the United States and the European Union, wines that contain more than 10 parts per million (PPM) of total sulphites must be labeled with the mention “contains sulphites”. This labeling requirement aims to inform consumers that they can be sensitive or allergic to sulphites about their presence in the product.

In many countries, including the United States and the European Union, wines containing more than 10 parts per million (PPM) of total sulphites must be labeled with the mention “contains sulphites.”

Sulfite Allergy: Fact or Fiction?

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, it is estimated that sensitivity to sulphites affects approximately 1% of the general population. However, real prevalence could be greater due to infradiagnosis and sel f-diagnosis based on symptoms. It is important to point out that sensitivity to sulphites is different from a true sulphite allergy, which is a rare condition.

For people with sensitivity to sulphites, exposure to sulphites can cause a series of symptoms, such as skin reactions, respiratory difficulties and gastrointestinal problems. Some people may experience mild symptoms, such as skin or urticaria rashes, while others may suffer serious and potentially mortal reactions, such as anaphylaxis. The severity of the reaction can vary depending on the sensitivity of the individual and the amount of sulphites consumed.

Although sensitivity to sulphites can be a legitimate concern for some people, it is important to distinguish it from other conditions and allergies. People who suspect that they have a sensitivity to sulphites should consult a doctor and undergo appropriate tests to accurately diagnose their condition. In addition, people with known sensitivity to sulphites should carefully read food labels and avoid consuming products that contain them to prevent adverse reactions.

Can Sulfites in Wine Cause Headaches?

What are sulphites? Sulfites are a type of chemical compound that is usually used as a preservative in many foods and drinks, including wine. They are also natural compounds that occur during the fermentation process. Sulfites help prevent deterioration and maintain the freshness of food and drinks inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeasts and molds.

Fact: sulphites have been used for centuries to keep food and drinks, especially wine. In general, the regulatory authorities, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States, recognize their safety.

However, sulphites have been the subject of controversy due to their possible side effects, especially in sensitive or intolerant people. One of the most frequent side effects is the appearance of headaches after the consumption of food or drinks containing sulphites. Although studies have demonstrated a correlation between sulphite consumption and headaches, the exact mechanism that underlies this relationship is not fully known.

1. Physiological response: Some investigations suggest that sulphites can induce vasodilation, which is the widening of blood vessels. This can cause an increase in blood flow and pressure, potentially triggering headaches in susceptible individuals.
2. Allergic reaction: sensitivity to sulphites can also manifest as an allergic reaction, with symptoms that go from slight to serious. Headaches can be one of the symptoms experienced by allergic people to sulphites.
3. Other compounds: It is important to point out that sulphites are not the only potential cause of win e-related headaches. Other compounds found in wine, such as histamines and tannins, have also been involved in the trigger of headaches in some people.

Although sulphites can trigger headaches in sensitive people, it should be noted that the vast majority of people can consume food and drinks that contain sulphites without experiencing any adverse effect. If you suspect that wine sulphites are the cause of your headaches, it may be useful to bring a diary to identify patterns and consult a healthcare professional to guide you.

Benefits of Sulfites in Wine Preservation

Sulfites act as antioxidants: one of the main benefits of sulphites in wine conservation is their ability to act as antioxidants. Antioxidants help prevent the oxidation of wine, which can cause its deterioration and loss of flavor. By inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms and avoiding the formation of undesirable compounds, sulphites guarantee that the wine remains fresh and vibrant.

“Sulfitos act as antioxidants, preventing the oxidation of wine and preserving its flavor.”

Sulfites inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi: sulphites have antimicrobial properties that help inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi in wine. This is especially important during the vinification process, since unwanted microbial activity can cause strange flavors and deterioration. Sulfitos act as a barrier against these harmful microorganisms, guaranteeing that the wine retains the desired characteristics.

Sulfites help aging potential: another advantage of sulphites in wine conservation is their role in prolonging the potential for wine aging. As they age, wines experience complex chemical reactions that contribute to the development of desirable flavors and aromas. Sulfites help stabilize these reactions avoiding excessive oxidation and microbial deterioration, allowing wine to ripen with elegance over time.

1. Sulfitos act as antioxidants, preventing the oxidation of wine and preserving its flavor.
2. Sulfites inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, guaranteeing that the wine remains free of deterioration.
3. Sulfites contribute to the potential for aging of wines, allowing them to develop the desirable characteristics over time.

How to Choose Low-Sulfite or Sulfite-Free Wines

When it comes to selecting wines with low sulfite content or completely free of sulphites, some important factors must be taken into account. In the first place, it is essential to understand that all wines contain some level of natural sulphites, since they occur during fermentation. However, wines labeled as “low in sulphites” or “sulphites” contain significantly lower levels of added sulphites than normal wines.

To choose the wine with knowledge of cause

1. Read the wines tags carefully: look for wines that specifically indicate “under sulphites” or “sulphites”.
2. Opt for ecological or biodynamic wines: these wines usually have lower amounts of added sulphites.
3. Consider natural wines: natural wines are made with the minimum intervention and additives, including sulphites.
4. Consult a sommelier or wine expert: you can guide you to find the appropriate options.

In addition, it can be useful to become familiar with the vinification methods that imply a minimum use of sulphites, such as the production of “natural wine.”Natural wines are made with ecological grapes and a minimum intervention, including the null or minimum addition of sulphites during the vinification process. Although these wines can contain traces of sulphites from natural fermentation, they are usually well tolerated by people sensitive to sulphites.

If these factors are taken into account and the terms that usually appear in wine labels are understood, people with sulphites sensitivity can make informed decisions when choosing low wines in sulphites or sulphites. It is advisable to consult with health professionals if you have specific health problems related to sulphite consumption, since they can offer you personalized advice based on your individual needs.

Tips for Enjoying Wine with Sulfites Responsibly

1. Choose wines with lower levels of sulphites: When looking for the selection of wines, opt for bottles that indicate that they have a lower content of sulphites. Some winemakers now produce sulphites or with a minimum content of added sulphites, to serve sensitive people. Reading the labels and investigating a bit can help you select wines with lower levels of sulphites and reduce the risk of experiencing adverse reactions.

“When you look for the wine selection, opt for bottles that indicate that they have less sulphite content.”

2. Drink in moderation: although sulphites can trigger reactions in sensitive people, consume excessive amounts of wine, regardless of their sulfite content, it can also cause health problems. It is essential to enjoy wine in moderation to minimize any possible adverse effect. It is recommended to follow the guidelines provided by health organizations, such as limiting alcohol consumption to a drink a day for women and two drinks per day for men.

1. “Although sulphites can trigger reactions in sensitive people, consume excessive amounts of wine, regardless of their sulfite content, it can also cause health problems.”

3. Store and serve the wine correctly: the sulfite levels in the wine can change over time, especially when exposed to oxygen. To maintain the quality of your wine and potentially reduce sulphite levels, make sure that storage conditions are adequate. Save the bottles in a cool and dark place, far from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. In addition, when it serves wine, consider the possibility of using a decanter and let it breathe for a brief period, since this can help dissipate part of sulphites.

• “To maintain the quality of your wine and potentially reduce sulphite levels, make sure the storage conditions are adequate.”

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont