Unsulphured

Unsulphured is an adjective used in food labeling to indicate that a product has not been treated with sulfur-containing compounds, particularly sulfur dioxide (SO2), during processing or preservation. The term is commonly applied to molasses, fruit juices, dried fruits, and other products that may be preserved or clarified with sulfur-based agents. While unsulphured signifies the absence of added sulfur, naturally occurring sulfur compounds may still be present in trace amounts depending on the source and processing method.

Usage and variations: Spelling differs by region. British English typically uses unsulphured, while American English most often uses unsulfured or unsulphured with the same meaning. The label is intended to inform consumers who wish to avoid sulfites or sulfur-containing preservatives, though it does not guarantee the absence of all sulfur compounds in every context.

Regulatory context: In many jurisdictions, sulfites must be listed on ingredient labels if present above certain concentration thresholds. A product described as unsulphured or with no added sulfites generally implies that no sulfur-based preservatives were added during processing, but it may still contain trace sulfites arising from natural components or cross-contamination in production facilities.

Examples: Unsulphured molasses is a common label, indicating that the molasses was produced without the use of sulfur dioxide for clarification or preservation, resulting in a lighter color and distinct flavor compared to sulfured varieties.

See also: sulfite, sulfur dioxide, sulfured, unsulfured.