Science

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   sullymonster Teacher
   Community / Jr. College

   There are many different categories that are connected to the overall term "sulfa."  Lets start with sulfites.  Sulfites are actually the chemical compound Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and are  are a naturally occuring compound that nature uses to prevent microbial growth. They are found on grapes, onions, garlic, and on many other growing plants. No wine can ever be "sulfite free", since they come in with the grapes.  In addition, many winemakers add SO2 in order to retain the "freshness" of the wine.

   Beer, however, does not have any natural sulfites, and it is not a common practice to add sulfites to beer.  It is possible for the brewing water to contain sulfates; however, that would depend on a number of environmental situations and would be impossible to predict. 

   As a side note, many people are allergic to sulfites, but not to sulfates (SO4). 

   Sources:

   http://www.enotes.com/britannica-encyclopedia/fermentation

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   Posted by sullymonster on Tuesday June 24, 2008 at 4:04 PM
   
   

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