Can Sulphites Cause Asthma? | Low Sulphite Natural Wines

17 December 2012

Can High Levels of Sulphites in Wines Cause Asthma?

You probably haven’t realised this but there are molecular compounds called sulphites contained in everything that you consume on a daily basis, from your favourite brand of food to your choice of wine on a Saturday night. Sulphites can trigger off a variety of allergic reactions in people, from the most mild to the extreme, and are most dangerous to people if they are unaware of the high levels of sulphites contained in their wines and everyday foods. Low sulphite Natural Wines offer drinkers peace of mind as they are actually sulphite free and are not at risk of being polluted with chemicals.

When are Sulphites a Problem?
Sulphites are produced naturally in all wines as the sulphites created act as a preservative that eliminates bacteria and ensures longevity. You have the naturally formed sulphites from wine production to thank for the wide range of wines that are available to buy today. Naturally occurring sulphites are not a problem as they accumulate in low levels during wine production if the process is conducted correctly. It is when wines are created on a mass-produced scale that consumers are at risk from high levels of sulphite contamination. You would be surprised by the poor conditions of the crops and soil in mass produced vineyards if you could see where your bottle of wine has come from. As well as a lethal cocktail of sulphites contained in the crops there are also an abundance of other chemicals lurking in your bottle of wine which are extremely harmful to the human body if consumed excessively.

Can Sulphites Really Cause Asthma?
A medical study in Australia concluded that one in four people experienced asthma attacks after drinking wines that contain sulphites however these were at higher doses than what is found in your standard bottle of wine. The study concluded wine is not the primary problem but is a small part of a bigger picture that has huge implications for the wine industry. Bees in wine can trigger allergic reactions as they carry pollen and wines can also contain a chemical called acetaldehyde which has triggered the airways to constrict in past studies on mice.

Check Your Labels!
There has recently been a huge drive on a global scale to improve the labelling of wines and foods that people buy every day.The European Union created legislation in 2005 that states that if a wine contains more than 10 parts per million it contains sulphites.Manufacturers used to get away with lax labelling and even though standards are improving today there is still confusion.

The term organic conjures images of ethical wine production in perfect conditions however this can be further than the truth. Organic wine can still contain sulphites so if you suspect you are at risk check the label! Natural Wine producers are artisans and even though you may have to pay an extra few pounds for a quality natural wine at least you are not compromising your health.

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17 December 2012

Can High Levels of Sulphites in Wines Cause Asthma?