"Sodium metabisulphite belongs to the family of sulphites. They protect food from spoilage by inactivating or inhibiting the growth of bacteria or moulds. They are also antioxidants and color stabilizers. Calculated exposures to sulfites exceed the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for all population groups. In addition, ""allergic"" type manifestations have been reported: skin plaques, respiratory symptoms, dermatitis, urticaria, etc. Asthmatics and people allergic to aspirin should particularly avoid sulphites. The labeling of the statement ""contains sulphites"" is mandatory when their concentration (expressed as SO32-) exceeds 10 mg/kg or /litre of the finished product. The European Food Safety Authority (Efsa) recommends that the exact sulphite content of the products be labelled."
Fruit and vegetables (especially dried), wine, spirits, condiments, beer, certain aperitif biscuits, cider, candied fruit, shellfish, crustaceans, etc..