The use of additives in food production has become a common practice in many organizations today. One of the most widely used additives is E171, which is a white pigment made from titanium dioxide.
This substance is added to food products to enhance their appearance, increase their shelf life, and thicken their texture. However, studies have shown that E171 could be harmful to human health when consumed in large quantities. Therefore, this article seeks to assess the use of common E171 add-ons in organizations.
What Is E171?
E171 is a white pigment that is commonly used in the food industry. It is made up of titanium dioxide, which is a naturally occurring mineral that is commonly found in rocks and soils.
This substance has unique optical properties that make it an ideal additive in food products.
How Is E171 Used in Food Production?
E171 is used in food production as a pigment. It is added to food products to enhance their appearance by making them whiter or brighter. Additionally, E171 is used to thicken food products, improve their texture, and increase their shelf life.
Some of the food products that contain E171 include candy, chewing gum, baked goods, dairy products, and beverages.
What Are the Concerns About the Use of E171 in Food Production?
There are growing concerns about the safety of E171, especially when consumed in large quantities. Studies have shown that this substance can cause harm to human health.
For instance, research has linked the consumption of E171 to inflammatory bowel disease, colon cancer, and other health issues. Additionally, studies have shown that E171 can accumulate in the body over time, which could lead to long-term health effects.
Regulations on the Use of E171 in Food Production
The use of E171 is regulated by food safety authorities in different countries. For instance, in the European Union, the use of E171 is allowed in food products but only up to a certain limit.
Additionally, the European Food Safety Authority has called for more research into the safety of E171 and other food additives. In the United States, the use of E171 is generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration.
Alternatives to E171
Given the concerns about the safety of E171, some organizations have sought alternative additives to use in their food products. Some of the common alternatives include natural pigments such as spirulina, curcumin, and beetroot extract.
Additionally, some organizations have opted to produce food products without any additives.
The Importance of Assessing the Use of E171 in Organizations
Assessing the use of E171 in organizations is important because it can help ensure the safety of the products that they produce. Organizations should regularly review their use of E171 and consider alternative additives if necessary.
Additionally, organizations should comply with regulations on the use of food additives to protect consumers from potential health risks.
The Role of Consumers in the Use of E171 in Food Products
Consumers play an important role in the use of E171 in food products. They should be aware of the potential health risks associated with this substance and make informed decisions when buying food products.
Consumers should also support organizations that prioritize the safety of their products and avoid those that do not comply with regulations on the use of food additives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the use of E171 in food production is a common practice in many organizations.
While this substance can enhance the appearance of food products and improve their shelf life, studies have shown that it could be harmful to human health when consumed in large quantities. Therefore, organizations should assess their use of E171 and consider alternative additives. Additionally, consumers should make informed decisions when buying food products that contain E171.