The agency also has an ongoing contract with the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology to re- examine the scientific data on possible adverse reactions to glutamate in general. MSG must be declared on the label of any food to which it is added. Sulfites Of all the food additives for which FDA has received adverse reaction reports, the ones that most closely resemble true allergens are sulfur-based preservatives. Sulfites are used primarily as antioxidants to prevent or reduce discoloration of light-colored fruits and vegetables, such as dried apples and potatoes, and to inhibit the growth of microorganisms in fermented foods such as wine. Though most people don't have a problem with sulfites, they are a hazard of unpredictable severity to people, particularly asthmatics, who are sensitive to these substances.
Responses range from mild to life-threatening.
FDA's sulfite specialists say scientists, at this time, are not sure how the body reacts to sulfites. Color additives must go through the same safety approval process as food additives. True Allergies Heredity may cause a predisposition to have allergies of any type, and repeated exposure to allergens starts sensitizing those who are susceptible. Some experts believe that, rarely, a specific allergy can be passed on from parent to child. Several studies have indicated that exclusive breast-feeding, especially with maternal avoidance of major food allergens, may deter some food allergies in infants and young children.