In the modern-day food industry, food preservatives have become an integral component in extending the shelf life of food products. Preservatives are used to prevent spoilage, increase durability, and maintain the freshness of food products.

However, some preservatives can have harmful effects on human health.

While many preservatives have been approved for use in food products by regulatory authorities, research has shown that some of these preservatives can cause health-related problems such as allergic reactions, hyperactivity, and cancer.

In this article, we discuss the most harmful preservatives commonly used in food production that consumers should be aware of.

Banned Preservatives

In some countries, certain types of preservatives have been banned for use in food production. These preservatives have been deemed too harmful for human consumption. It is important for consumers to be aware of the following banned preservatives:.

Sodium Nitrite and Nitrate

Sodium Nitrite and Nitrate are commonly used in processed meat products such as bacon, hot dogs and deli meats. These preservatives help to prevent the growth of bacteria while giving processed meat its characteristic color and flavor.

Studies have shown that when sodium nitrite and nitrate combine with amino acids that are present in processed meat, they form compounds that can be harmful to human health.

These compounds have been linked to the development of cancer and heart disease, hence the reason why the use of these preservatives in food production is strictly regulated.

BHA and BHT

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are synthetic preservatives commonly used in the food industry to prevent rancidity in foods that contain oils.

Research has linked BHA and BHT to carcinogenicity and tumor growth in laboratory animals, causing many countries to restrict their use in food production to regulated levels.

It is therefore important for consumers to read food labels carefully to determine the presence of these preservatives in processed foods.

Common Preservatives to Avoid

While some preservatives have been banned due to their harmful health effects, others are still used in food production and can have unfavorable effects on human health if consumed in large quantities.

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Below are some common preservatives that consumers should be cautious of:.

Sodium Benzoate

Sodium Benzoate is commonly used as an antimicrobial and antifungal agent in food products. It is often found in soft drinks, fruit juices, and pickles to prevent spoilage.

Research has shown that in high doses, sodium benzoate can lead to hyperactivity, allergies, and asthma in children.

It is important for consumers to limit their intake of products containing sodium benzoate, especially for those with a predisposition to allergies and hyperactivity.

Propyl Gallate

Propyl Gallate is an antioxidant that is used to prevent the oxidation of oils and fats in food products. It is commonly found in chewing gum, baked goods, and potato chips.

Studies have linked propyl gallate to cancer and liver damage in laboratory animals, leading the European Union to ban its use in food production.

In the United States, the use of propyl gallate in food production is still permitted, but consumers should be aware of its potential health risks and limit their intake of products containing this preservative.

Conclusion

While preservatives play a critical role in extending the shelf life of food products, some preservatives can have harmful effects on human health.

Banned preservatives such as Sodium Nitrite and Nitrate, and BHA and BHT have been linked to cancer and liver damage, while common preservatives to avoid including Sodium Benzoate and Propyl Gallate have been linked to hyperactivity in children and cancer, respectively.

Therefore, it is essential for consumers to read food labels carefully and limit their intake of products that contain these preservatives.

Keeping our bodies healthy begins with making informed food choices and prioritizing the consumption of fresh, natural foods free of harmful preservatives.