5 Common Food Additives We Consume and Their Health Effects

Food additives play a crucial role in preserving the freshness, enhancing the flavor, and improving the appearance of our food. However, while some additives are harmless, others have raised concerns over their potential health effects. Have you ever wondered just how much food additives you unknowingly consume on a daily basis?

Let's explore the five common food additives you unknowingly consume through processed foods, as well as the potential health effects of these ingredients.

1. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

(Photo : Pexels/Mark Stebnicki)

MSG, also known as monosodium glutamate, is a common food ingredient used to boost and improve the overall taste of savory dishes. It can be present in many processed goods, such as canned soups, frozen entrees, and salty snacks. Additionally, it is frequently included in the dishes served at restaurants and fast food establishments.

The usage of MSG has been the topic of intense debate ever since a study conducted in 1969 on mice revealed that excessive doses of the compound generated detrimental effects on the nervous system and impeded growth and development. However, since it cannot penetrate the blood-brain barrier, this additive is unlikely to impact human brain health in any significant manner.

2. Trans Fat

Hydrogenated trans fats are a category of unsaturated fatty acids that contribute to the extension of product shelf life and enhancement of consistency. Some examples of processed foods that contain it include biscuits, margarine, microwave popcorn, and baked goods.

As mentioned, it has been shown that trans fat consumption is related to several potential health hazards. As a result, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently decided to revoke its GRAS or Generally Recognized as Safe certification since multiple studies have found a correlation between higher consumption of trans fats and an increased likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.

3. Sodium Nitrite

Sodium nitrite is a preservative that is commonly found in processed meats. Its primary function is to inhibit the growth of microorganisms, which also imparts a flavor that is salty and a color that is reddish pink.

Nitrites can transform into nitrosamine when subjected to high temperatures and when amino acids are present. In addition, nitrosamine is a molecule that can adversely impact one's health. A higher consumption of nitrites and nitrosamine was found to be connected with an increased risk of developing cancers of the stomach, breast, and bladder organs.

4. Brominated Vegetable Oil

As an additive, Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) inhibits the flavor from separating from the carbonated beverage. Aside from having long-term consequences such as headaches, memory loss, and nerve difficulties, bromine, an ingredient in BVO, can also irritate the skin and the mucous membranes. Research indicates that bromine can accumulate in the body over time. As a result, the European Union, Japan, and India have all prohibited its use.

5. Potassium Bromate

Despite having been linked to cancer in rodents and being classified as a potential carcinogen to humans, potassium bromate remains a legal additive in the United States that aids in the elevation of bread. However, it has been prohibited in Brazil, China, the United Kingdom, and India.

International Organization Responsible for Safety Assessments on Food Additives

When it comes to human health, food additives are evaluated to determine whether or not they have the potential to cause harm. The assessment of the safety of food additives falls under the responsibility of authoritative agencies operating at the national, regional, and worldwide levels.

The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) is an international organization that is in charge of reviewing the health implications of food additives intended for use in foods commercially traded within the international community. Accordingly, the only food additives permitted to be used internationally are those subjected to a JECFA safety evaluation and determined not to pose a significant threat to consumers' health.