What are sulfites?

Sulfur-based preservatives, or sulfites, have been used around the world for centuries to:

• Inhibit oxidation ("browning") of light-colored fruits and vegetables, such as dried apples and dehydrated potatoes
• Prevent melanosis ("black spot") on shrimp and lobster
  
• Discourage bacterial growth as wine ferments
• "Condition" dough
• Bleach food starches, such as corn starch
  
• Maintain the stability and potency of some medications, such as Epi-Pen