Allergens
Sulphites: risks and product recalls in Ireland
Preservatives (sulphur dioxide and sulphites) that must be declared above a set level and can trigger breathing problems, especially in people with asthma.
What it is
Sulphur dioxide and sulphites are preservatives used in dried fruit, wine, processed meats, soft drinks and some other foods. They must be declared when present above 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/litre.
Health effects of a reaction
In sensitive people, particularly those with asthma, sulphites can trigger breathing difficulties, wheezing and other reactions. Most people are unaffected.
How it leads to a recall
Recalls occur when sulphites are present above the declarable level but not labelled, through a labelling error or a change in ingredients.
What to do
If you are sensitive to sulphites, do not consume the affected product — return it for a refund, and follow medical advice, especially if you have asthma.
Recent sulphites allergen recalls
15 recalls we track involve undeclared sulphites, newest first.
Royal Orient Palm Sugar recalled due to undeclared allergen sulphites
Royal Orient Palm Sugar is being recalled due to the undeclared presence of sulphur dioxide, which poses a risk to consumers with allergies or intolerances to sulphites. The affected product is a 1 kg pack with a specific batch code.
Rongs Wholesale Ltd. recalls various products due to undeclared allergens
Rongs Wholesale Ltd. is recalling various products due to undeclared and incorrectly declared allergens. This may pose a risk to consumers with allergies or intolerances to certain allergens.
Savana Dried Apricots recalled due to incorrectly declared sulphur dioxide
A batch of Savana Dried Apricots is recalled due to incorrectly declared sulphur dioxide on the ingredients list. This may pose a risk to consumers who are allergic to or intolerant of sulphur dioxide and sulphites.
Ketoclassic 3:1 Porridge, Muesli and Savoury recalled due to incorrectly declared allergens
Ketoclassic 3:1 Porridge, Muesli, and Savoury are recalled due to incorrectly declared allergens. The products contain allergens such as gluten, sulphur dioxide, and milk that are not properly listed, making them unsafe for certain consumers.
JM Food Services Gratin Potato recalled due to incorrectly declared sulphur dioxide
A batch of JM Food Services Gratin Potato is recalled due to incorrectly declared sulphur dioxide, which may pose a risk to those allergic or intolerant to it. The batch is past its use-by date but is labelled suitable for home freezing.
Le Paysan 4 Pate Gift Pack recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide and milk
Specific batches of Le Paysan 4 Pate Gift Pack are being recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide and incorrectly declared milk. This may pose a risk to consumers who are allergic to or intolerant of these substances.
Le Paysan Smoked Salmon and Mackerel Pates recalled due to undeclared allergens
Specific batches of Le Paysan Smoked Salmon Pate and Le Paysan Smoked Mackerel Pate are being recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide and incorrectly declared milk. This may pose a risk to consumers who are allergic to or intolerant of these ingredients.
Pure Heaven Out of this World White Grape and Peach Sparkli recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide
A batch of Pure Heaven Out of this World White Grape and Peach Sparkling Non-Alcoholic Celebration Drink is recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide, which may pose a risk to those allergic or intolerant to it. The affected product is a 750ml bottle with a specific batch code.
Vale View Schuyler Irish Grown Red Wine recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide
A batch of Vale View Schuyler Irish Grown Red Wine is recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide, which may pose a risk to those allergic or intolerant to it. The affected product is from 2023.
Dried Shiitake Small Mushrooms recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide
A batch of Dried Shiitake Small Mushrooms is being recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide, which may pose a risk to consumers with allergies or intolerances to this substance. The affected product is from China and has a specific best-before date.
Royal Orient Palm Sugar recalled due to undeclared sulphites
A batch of Royal Orient Palm Sugar has been recalled due to undeclared sulphites, which may pose a risk to those allergic or intolerant to sulphites. The affected pack sizes are 500g and 454g.
Palm Sugar recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide in specific batches
Specific batches of Palm Sugar are being recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide, which may pose a risk to consumers allergic to it. The affected batches are from Thailand.
Milano Drops Skin Drops recalled due to undeclared allergens: sulphites and soya
Milano Drop Skin Drops are being recalled due to the presence of sulphites and soya, and possible presence of gluten that is not declared on the label. This may pose a risk to consumers with allergies or intolerances to these allergens.
Hogan's Farm Turkey Burgers recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide
Hogan’s Farm is recalling specific batches of their Turkey Burgers due to undeclared sulphur dioxide, which may pose a risk to consumers with allergies or intolerances. This issue affects both the regular Turkey Burgers and those with a Spicy Buffalo Glaze, as well as an incorrect declaration on the Asian BBQ Glaze variant.
The Elizabeth Ann Dessert Collection recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide
Specific batches of The Elizabeth Ann Dessert Collection apple and berry tarts are recalled due to undeclared sulphur dioxide, which may pose a risk to those allergic or intolerant to it. The affected products include The Mmmm Tart! Apple and Berry and Apple Raspberry & Blueberry Tart.
Official sources
This page is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the official recall notice, and contact your GP, pharmacist or the HSE if you are worried about your health. In an emergency call 112 or 999.