Sulfites

n. salt or ester of sulfurous acid (Chemistry)

Sulfites (also sulphites) are compounds that contain the sulfite ion SO32−. They are often used as preservatives in wines (to prevent spoilage and oxidation), dried fruits, and dried potato products. Sulfites also occur naturally in almost all wines.
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adj. sulphite, containing sulphur (Chemistry)

Sulfites in high concentrations sometimes pose problems for people with severe asthma. Sulfites can give off a gas called sulfur dioxide that a person with asthma inhales while eating food containing sulfites. This gas irritates the lungs and can send an asthmatic into severe bronchospasm, a tightening of the lungs.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned sulfites as spray-on preservatives in fresh fruits and vegetables. Sulfites are still used in some foods, however, and occur naturally during the fermentation of wine.
Sulfites occur naturally in foods or may be added to increase crispness or prevent mold growth.
  

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