5
Chemicals to Avoid in Food
Food manufacturers aren’t going to advertise the
fact that controversial chemicals are actually in their food. If you want to be
informed and eat better, here are five chemicals to avoid in food so you can
eat without worry.
1) Sodium Nitrates & Sodium Nitrites
These two similar ingredients are used in many processed meat products (think
hot dogs, bacon, and lunch meats) because they act as food preservatives.
However, both have been linked to different types of cancer. A better bet is to
opt for meats labeled “nitrate-free” or “nitrite-free.”
2) Aspartame
This artificial sweetener is found in thousands of diet drinks and foods. While
it’s been around for decades, it is one of the most controversial ingredients in
our food chain. Some research suggests it is actually linked to many medical
problems and even weight gain. Check with your doctor about making the switch
to a new ingredient available known as Stevia. It’s a natural zero-calorie
sweetener that comes from the Stevia plant.
3) Certain Food Dyes & Colorings
More and more parents are becoming increasingly concerned because of research
that suggests food dyes are linked to hyperactivity in children. Think about
all the artificially colored food items on the market such as juices, boxed
foods, and bakery items. The safer choice is to avoid foods with numbered dyes
on the ingredient list. Also, seek out organic foods, which don’t contain
synthetic food dyes and colorings.
4) BHA & BHT
Butylated Hydroxyanisole and Butylated Hydrozyttoluene are two similar
additives that are common food preservatives. They work by preventing fats and
oils from spoiling so you’ll see them used in chips, cereals, and even chewing
gums. The concern is that they may cause cancer or alter behavior. These
additives aren’t banned from foods but they do have to be on the label. Also,
remember that it’s usually ‘junk food’ that contains BHA or BHT.
5) Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)
While PFOA is not added to our foods, many of our foods are contaminated with
it. That’s because it’s used in food packaging and cookware. This chemical is
linked to cancer and once it’s in your body, it can stay there for years. PFOA
is used in many microwave popcorn bags and certain non-stick cookware. If you
want to keep it out of the foods you eat, consider banning microwavable popcorn
from your home and using non-toxic cookware such as glass or stainless steel.
Remember, eating better begins with knowing what
you actually eat. Inspecting the ingredient list is always your first line of
defense. And, when possible, go the organic route. It’s another important way
to Do Your Part to eat better while keeping unnecessary sometimes-dangerous
chemicals out of our environment.
Terri Bennett is a veteran TV meteorologist,
syndicated columnist, and host of DoYourPart.com where you can find everyday
green living ideas that are better for you and the planet.
© 2011, Terri Bennett Enterprises, LLC. ALL RIGHTS
RESERVED.
