5 Common Food Additives to Avoid

Sneaky & Potentially Harmful Food Additives

Processed foods are the sole largest culprit of dangerousfood additives that are hidden in the many of the convenience goods we consume, but knowing what to look for (and avoid) can be complex. Labeling guidelines are still shaky from the legal perspective and even the guidelines within the organics industry are still loosely regulated to some extent. It’s best to fuel the body with fresh, organic victuals when possible, but here are some food additives to stay away from when you simply must choose processed foods.

1. Food Dyes & Artificial Colorants -  There’s a lot of unnecessary colorants placed into foods. Those Fruit Loops would taste exactly the same without the dye additions to make the grape tasting morsels look purple and so on. A marketing psychologist would explain that colors are added to children’s products like cereal, candy, and supposedly healthy fruit snacks and beverages to appeal to youngsters. However, these dyes are purportedly harming the very consumers they want to attract. In particular, Red No. 40 and Yellows No. 5 and 6 make up 90% of all food dyes currently being marketed in products. The Center for Science in the Public Interest cites studies indicating that these artificial colorants contribute to ADHD, hyperactivity, kidney and adrenal gland tumors, and allergic reactions.

2. Phthalates as Food Additives – This synthetic hormone is often found in canned foods and has been associated with various disruptions of the endocrine system in both humans and animals. Other studies show that reproductive and neurological damages can stem from the consumption of phthalates. You’ll are also likely to discover this undesirable substance in a good deal of your cosmetics and personal hygiene products.

3. BPA – Recent studies show that canned goods once again are the largest culprit to humans’ exposure to Bispenol A (BPA), but they are also present in most any type of plastic container and most prepackaging materials made of plastic. Unfortunately, even the majority of organically labeled canned foods contain BPA including the top, most reputable brands. Also a synthetic hormone, BPAs harbor the same risks to humans as phthalates. Look for BPA-Free on the label to protect yourself, and seek out foods and drinks in non-plastic containers.

4. MSG – Controversial as to whether it is dangerous to those without MSG sensitivities, many studies have successfully linked this chemical to headaches, weight gain, and hormonal imbalances. Other studies have further indicated that MSG exposure can cause retinal damage that could ultimately lead to blindness or other eye diseases. Fortunately, many pre-packaged foods and menu items will be listed as MSG-Free for those of us not willing to take a chance.

5. Lead – Unless you have the time and ability to squeeze organic fruit juices fresh every day, you are likely consuming unknown amounts of lead in your premade nectars. The worst offenders are those handy pre-packaged juice drinks we lovingly place in our kids lunchboxes and offer for snacks.

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