More Food Additives to Avoid

A healthy mind begins with a healthy body. Aside from regular regimen, and proper sleep it's wise to know what you are putting into your body. It goes without saying (but I will) that you should stay away from heavily processed foods. Organic, non-GMO, non bio engineered is the best solution. I myself follow a Mediterranean diet. Stick to the exterior of the local grocery store (with a few exceptions), avoiding the aisles. I understand this isn't always practical for everyone's personal situation. However, this list includes a few major additives that you should try to avoid at all costs. These additives are not only found in foods but also vitamins, medications, and topical treatments like sunscreen, lotion or cosmetics.

1. Artificial Food Dyes (Synthetic Colorants):

* Examples: Red Dye No. 3 (Erythrosine), Red Dye No. 40, Yellow Dye No. 5, Yellow Dye No. 6, Blue Dye No. 1, Blue Dye No. 2, Green Dye No. 3.

• Concerns: Linked to neurobehavioral problems in children (like hyperactivity and attention deficit disorders), and some dyes have been linked to cancer in animal studies. Red Dye No. 3 was recently banned from food in California and the FDA has stated it will be phased out nationally.
• Status in US: Still widely used, though California banned some in 2023, which is forcing some reformulation. The FDA has announced a phase-out of petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the food supply, with specific actions on Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B, and working to eliminate the six remaining synthetic dyes.

2. Titanium Dioxide (TiO_2):

* Concerns: Used as a whitener and brightener. The European Union banned it as a food additive in 2021 due to concerns about potential genotoxicity (damage to DNA) and accumulation in the body, particularly from nanoparticles.

• Status in US: Still permitted.

3. Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO):

* Concerns: Used as an emulsifier in some citrus-flavored beverages. Linked to neurological, reproductive, and thyroid harm.

• Status in US: The FDA proposed revoking its authorization for BVO in late 2023, indicating it's no longer considered safe. Many beverage makers have already phased it out. California banned it effective 2027.

4. Potassium Bromate:

* Concerns: Used as a dough conditioner in baked goods. Classified as a possible human carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) in animals. Banned in many countries, including the European Union, Canada, and India.

• Status in US: Still allowed, though California banned it effective 2027.

5. Propylparaben:

• Concerns: An antimicrobial preservative. Linked to endocrine disruption and reproductive harm.
• Status in US: Still allowed, though California banned it effective 2027.

6. Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT):

* Concerns: Antioxidant preservatives used in cereals, processed meats, and other foods. BHA is classified as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen" by the National Toxicology Program. Both have been linked to cancer and hormone disruption in animal studies.

• Status in US: Still permitted, but some states are considering bans.

7. Azodicarbonamide (ADA):

* Concerns: Used as a dough conditioner and bleaching agent in breads. Can form carcinogenic byproducts when heated.

• Status in US: Still allowed.

8. Sodium Nitrite and Nitrate:

* Concerns: Used to preserve processed meats (like bacon, hot dogs). Can form N-nitroso compounds (nitrosamines) which are known carcinogens, especially when heated.

• Status in US: Widely used in cured meats.

Why are they still in use in the U.S. if concerns exist?

• FDA's "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) loophole: Many additives are designated as GRAS by manufacturers without independent FDA review, leading to a slower process for reassessment even when new scientific evidence emerges.
• Slower regulatory process: The FDA's process for reviewing and banning additives can be very slow, sometimes taking decades even after concerns are raised.
• Different regulatory standards: The U.S. often has different regulatory standards and a higher bar for proving harm compared to other regions like the European Union.
•  Industry pressure: Powerful food industry lobbies can influence regulatory decisions.

Make informed healthy food choices along with a reasonable fitness plan and sleep to help ensure a longer, happier, healthier life. Don't just take my word for it. Always DYOR before starting any major adjustments to your daily diet.

 ~ atomïo

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