Uses:
Food and beverage: Acts as a preservative, antioxidant, and antimicrobic in products like dried fruits, juices, and some seafood.
Industrial: Used in water treatment, paper pulping, and photography.
Other: Used in the production of dyes and as a reducing agent in various processes.
Side effects and precautions Allergic reactions: A small percentage of the population is sensitive to sulfites and can have allergic reactions, with some asthmatics experiencing severe reactions.Food restrictions: The FDA classifies sodium sulfite as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) but not for use in meats or foods that are a source of vitamin B1, or on fresh fruits and vegetables meant to be eaten raw.
Handling: It reacts with oxidants and strong acids to produce toxic fumes. Inhalation or contact should be avoided, and immediate medical attention should be sought in case of severe exposure,