Monitoring of sulphites levels in shrimps samples collected in Puglia (Italy) by ion-exchange chromatography with conductivity detection

Abstract

In shrimps the treatment with sulphiting agents is currently the best option for controlling Melanosis, which is a visual defect of the products that compromises marketability. However, sulphites may cause pseudo-allergic reactions in humans. In this study, 210 samples of shrimps were analysed in order to assess the residual levels of sulphiting agents. A quantifiable sulphites concentration was detected in 76 samples, and these concentrations were higher than the legal limits in eight samples. Considering the important pseudo-allergenic effects caused by these food additives, the non-negligible percentage of 3.8% and the high levels registered in non-compliant samples (up to 1174.1 mg kg⁻¹), a strong contrast action based on permanent controls is necessary. Moreover, the levels measured in whole samples were up to four times higher than in the edible parts. These results suggest to consider the introduction of legal limits, related to sulphurous anhydride in the whole product.

Keywords:

• shrimps
• sulphites
• sulphiting agents
• sulphurous anhydride
• sulphur dioxide
• food additives
• ion chromatography
• monitoring

Acknowledgement

Mrs Mariagrazia Russo from Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale di Puglia e Basilicata-Foggia is gratefully acknowledged for technical assistance.

Funding

Ministero della Salute (Rome, Italy), is gratefully acknowledged for providing the financial support.