Anaphylaxis after ingestion of sodium bisulfite
Prenner, B.M.; Stevens, J.J.
Annals of Allergy 37(3): 180-182
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-4738 PMID: 962196 Document Number: 101705
The occurrence of anaphylaxis is reported after the ingestion of food sprayed with sodium bisulfite, an antioxidant used in the food and restaurant industry as an antifermentive, preservative and antibrowning agent for potatoes, fruits and vegetables. In the present case the patient apparently formed specific IgE antibody to sodium bisulfite, probably via a haptenic mechanism. This documentation of an anaphylactic reaction to the common chemical additive, sodium bisulfite, should alert physicians to consider food additives as well as the foods themselves when seeking agents responsible for such reactions.