Remembering preservatives that trigger asthma

Asthma is listed as a potential side effect for preservatives in the range E200-E228 according to the Chemical Maze.

I find this an easy fact to keep in mind when supermarket shopping and bypassing anything likely to cause wheezing is quickly passed over.

E200 to E228 is a list that captures known preservatives such as sulphur dioxide (E220) but also lesser known suspects such as sorbic acid (E200), Benzoic acid (E210) and sodium benzoate (E211).

Many preservatives in this range as petroleum derived and have potential side effects that extend beyond asthma to many common complaints such as hyperactivity, headache and stomach sensitivities.

Avoiding preservatives will not only support asthma management action plans but add to the health of the whole family.

If you found this article valuable, you can download the Asthma Maze App to your iPhone now.

Have easy-to-use information on thousands of potentially harmful ingredients at your fingertips.

Lindy Schneider is a writer and researcher with a keen interest in health, wellbeing and natural childcare. She is an advocator of a chemical-free lifestyle in the best interests of her family, the community and a sustainable world. She lives in the Yarra Valley with her partner and two young children.