CAN FOOD ADDITIVES TRIGGER ASTHMA?

Some people with asthma may experience allergic reactions to certain food additives, which can trigger asthma symptoms. With the exception of sulfites, food additives are not listed on food labels, but they can be spotted in ingredient lists if you know what to look for. Sulfites are both added and naturally occurring in products like wine and dried fruits, and a warning is required on food labels when they are above a certain concentration. Food colorings can cause allergic reactions that trigger asthma, and both carmine and yellow number five are known food allergens. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used as a flavor enhancer in a range of foods and is thought to trigger asthma symptoms in higher concentrations.

P.S. While not an additive, salicylates are found in aspirin and are naturally occurring in foods like beer, coffee, honey, and tomato paste. Salicylates may increase symptoms in some asthma patients.

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