Sulfitgehalt

Sulfitgehalt refers to the concentration of sulfite ions in a solution, typically expressed in milligrams per liter (mg/L) or parts per million (ppm). Sulfites are inorganic anions with the chemical formula SO3^2-. They are commonly used in various industrial and food processing applications due to their preservative and antioxidant properties.

In the context of water treatment, sulfitgehalt is an important parameter to monitor, as high levels of sulfites can be harmful to aquatic life and may contribute to the formation of disinfection by-products when combined with chlorine. The European Union has set a maximum allowable concentration of 250 mg/L for sulfites in drinking water.

In the food industry, sulfites are used as preservatives to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. They are commonly found in dried fruits, dried vegetables, and some types of meat. However, individuals with sulfite allergies or asthma may experience adverse reactions to sulfites, including hives, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis.

The measurement of sulfitgehalt can be done using various analytical techniques, such as ion chromatography or spectrophotometry. These methods allow for the accurate determination of sulfite concentrations in different matrices, including water and food products.