Sulfite Test Strip

Sulfite Test Strip

The Sulfite Test Strip is used to detect Sulfite ions in water-based solutions, measuring in increments of 10, 50, 100, 250, and 500ppm.

The Sulfite test strip will detect free sulfite. Detection of combined or total (free + combined) sulfite requires additional sample prep.

Various types of sulfites can be tested with this strip: sulfite, bisulfite, and metabisulfite. Our original color chart was developed to measure sulfite ions in ppm (from sodium sulfite standards), however, we have checked standards and found that bisulfite and metabisulfite also match the same color chart.

SKU: SUL Categories: , Tag:

Sulfite Test Strip

  1. Immerse the test strip into the solution and swirl 3 times.
  2. Remove the strip and compare to the color chart after 15 seconds.

sulfite test strip, sulfite, sulfite test strips
SUL100; SUL; SUL-1V-50

Product Specs

SKU:

SUL-1V-50

Strip Quantity:

50 strips

Vial Dimensions:

1.125″ (D) x 3.375″ (H) [29mm (D) x 86mm (H)]

Strip Dimensions:

2.5" (L) x .1875" (W) [64mm (L) x 5mm (W)]

Weight:

0.07 lbs [33.4 g] (50-strip vial)

Other:

Stored in a flip-top vial with built-in desiccant liner.

Shelf-Life:

2 Years

Label:

Customizable water-resistant label

Product Documentation

What types of sulfites can be tested using the Sulfite test strips?

Various types of sulfites can be used – sulfite, bisulfite, and metabisulfite. Our original color chart was developed to measure sulfite ions in ppm (from sodium sulfite standards), however, we have checked standards and found that bisulfite and metabisulfite also match the same color chart.

Can I use the Sulfite test strips in wine?

Sulfites (Sulfur Dioxide) in wine are present in two forms – free and bound. The Sulfite test strips only detect free sulfite. The buffer agents on the test pad convert the free sulfur dioxide to sulfite ions, which then react with the dye indicator developing color proportional to the amount of free sulfur dioxide (sulfite) present. Unfortunately, the majority of sulfur dioxide in wine is in the bound form. The test strips, as is, will not detect this form. It is necessary to adjust the pH of the wine to above 7, preferably to about 12, to liberate all of the bound sulfur dioxide. Once liberated, the sulfur dioxide will convert to sulfite ions and can be detected by the test pad. In adjusting the pH, care should be taken. In addition, the end result will need to compensate for any dilutions made.

The color of the wine poses a challenge in that the color will absorb into the test pad affecting the interpretation of the results. An alternative method for testing red wine involves liberating the free sulfite present by adding approximately 1 teaspoon of citric acid to a 1 ounce sample of red wine in a small cup. Wet the pad of the Sulfite test strip with bottled water. Holding the Sulfite test strip above the solution for 5 minutes will result in the test strip reading the free sulfite level. The citric acid will cause free sulfites in the wine to convert to sulfur dioxide gas. The gas will react with the test strip. We have tested some sulfite-spiked red wine and found that the amount of sulfite added to spike the sample when reacted with acid correlates with the color chart as a measure of the sulfite in the wine sample. Other acids will work as well, but citric acid is probably the least hazardous choice (hydrochloric acid works well but it is not easily handled). This technique will help with testing for free sulfites but will not address the issue of combined sulfites.

Product Enquiry

Title

Go to Top