Dangerously High Levels Of FDA GRAS-Approved Sulfites Prompts Nationwide Apricot Recall
By Laurel Maloy, contributing writer, Food Online
Consumption of this product with Sulfite levels above generally recognized as safe levels may cause life-threatening allergic reactions, especially in asthmatics
Discovered to have extremely high levels of sulfites on Feb 24, the FDA announced the recall of Net Food Brand Turkey Dried, Diced Apricots on March 7, 2014. The product is distributed by Net Foods Import & Export, headquartered in NJ, and is sold in 16.1 ounce clear plastic containers bearing the UPC Code: 8697445250019. The recall only states that it is a product of Turkey and was sold nationwide; there is no information about where it is distributed or how many containers are affected. The expiration date on the label is written as ‘EXPIRY DATE 11.2015’.
To date, no illnesses or deaths have been reported in connection to this recall. Consumers who have purchased Net Food Brand Turkey Dried Apricots can return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Net Food Import & Export at (347) 484-2256.
Sulfites, also correctly called Sulphites, are an FDA Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) ingredient, listed as Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) on the GRAS register. Label declaration of sulfites has been required since 1980 when the FDA started receiving complaints about allergic reactions in people after ingesting or simply being exposed to sulfites. However, in 21 Code of Federal Regulations (21CFR), Section 182.6285, the limitations and restrictions are very broadly stated.
Sulfite is an all-inclusive term used for SO2. Compounds containing sulfites are used widely as a food preservative and for wine-making. Using sulfites on vegetables, such as in a salad bar, will give the appearance of freshness to aging produce, though this specific use is no longer allowed by the FDA. The reason? People with sensitivity to sulfites who inhaled or handled the product directly suffered symptoms.
Asthmatics, in particular, can suffer life-threatening anaphylaxis. Lesser symptoms may include itchy skin, rash, hives, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, wheezing, cough, tightness in the chest, and difficulty breathing. The consumption of 10 milligrams (mg) of sulfites per serving is enough to cause severe reactions in some asthmatics. The lab analysis of the Net Food Brand Turkey Dried Apricots revealed a level of 4,955 parts per million (ppm) per serving. 10 mg, when converted to ppm, equals 10.01142303.
A 2011 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that nearly 10 percent of people (about 25 million) have asthma, with those numbers increasing every year. The Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry (ATSDR) has listed sulfur dioxide as a toxic substance since 1998. Should the FDA be reevaluating its GRAS approval in this instance?