The new Dirty Dozen, beyond produce. Read the labels and avoid these additives: 1. Nitrates and Nitrites Primarily used to preserve flavor and color in cured meats, products treated with nitrates and nitrites are a breeding ground for nitrosamines, a known cancer-causing compound. 2. Potassium bromate Used to fortify bread and other foods made from wheat flour, this additive is more poignantly recognized as a carcinogen by both the state of California and the International Cancer Agency. 3. Propylparaben A common preservative in tortillas and muffins, it has also been linked with decreased sperm count and testosterone levels in lab rats. 4. Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) The European Union classifies this potato chip and beef jerky preservative as a known endocrine disruptor. 5. Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) Often used in concert with BHA as a preservative in convenience foods, it has been associated with the development of lung and liver cancer in lab rats. 6. Propyl gallate This chemical is used to preserve edible fats in sausage and lard and also has links to estrogenic activity and endocrine disruption. 7. Theobromine An alkaloid found in chocolate, this additive used in breads, cereals, and sport drinks is deemed safe by the FDA—but only at a level 5 times less than the average person consumes it. 8. “Secret flavor” ingredients FDA loopholes allow companies to hide the specifics of their “natural flavors,” making this a grab bag of potential health concerns. 9. Artificial colors Food dyes are typically used to increase the visual appeal of nutrient-deficient food. Caramel color III and IV contain a chemical that was linked to tumors in a National Toxicology Program study. 10. Diacetyl Used as butter flavoring in microwavable popcorn, this compound is associated with severe respiratory diseases. 11. Phosphates Found in more than 20,000 foods, this is the most common additive. High phosphate levels in the blood lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. 12. Aluminum additives Used as a stabilizer in many processed foods, it is linked with developmental difficulties during pregnancy as well as neurodegenerative disorders. takepart/article/2014/11/12/dirty-dozen-food-additives?cmpid=tp-ptnr-ewg
Posted on: Thu, 13 Nov 2014 19:59:42 +0000