13 Food additives you should avoid
13 Food additives you should avoid
Most of the processed foods we eat contain mysterious additives. Whilst they extend shelf life, enhance flavours and colours, they don’t do great things for our health. It’s easy to grab packaged snacks, sauces and ready to eat meals without a second thought.
But have you ever wondered what’s really inside these products? Some have been linked to allergic reactions, digestive issues, and even long-term health concerns. Here’s a list of the top 13 harmful food additives you should try to avoid.
1.Artificial Sweeteners
Aspartame (E951), Sucralose (E955), Saccharin (E954) Commonly found in diet sodas, sugar-free gum, and low-calorie snacks, these sweeteners have been linked to headaches, digestive problems, and even potential impacts on gut health.
2. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) - E621
MSG is used to enhance flavor in soups, chips, and processed meats. While some people are fine with it, others report symptoms like headaches, flushing, or nausea
3. High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)
Although not classified with an “E number,” HFCS is used in soft drinks, baked goods, and cereals. It has been associated with obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.
4. Sodium Nitrites and Nitrates
• Sodium Nitrite (E250)
• Sodium Nitrate (E251)
These preservatives keep deli meats, bacon, and hot dogs looking fresh and tasting savory. Unfortunately, they can form carcinogenic compounds called nitrosamines when cooked at high temperatures.
5. Artificial Food Dyes
• Red 40 (E129)
• Yellow 5 (E102)
• Blue 1 (E133)
These dyes are found in candy, cereals, and drinks. Studies have linked some food dyes to hyperactivity in children and potential carcinogenic effects.
6. Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats)
While trans fats do not have a specific E number, they were once common in margarine, baked goods, and fried foods. Trans fats raise bad cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
7. Potassium Bromate (E924)
This additive is used to improve dough strength in bread and rolls. It has been classified as a potential carcinogen, making it worth avoiding.
8. BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole - E320) and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene - E321)
Found in chips, cereals, and packaged baked goods, these preservatives prevent spoilage but have been linked to cancer in animal studies.
9. Sodium Benzoate (E211)
A preservative in sodas and acidic foods, sodium benzoate can form benzene, a carcinogen, when combined with vitamin C.
10. Propyl Gallate (E310)
Used in fats and oils to prevent oxidation, this additive has raised concerns about its potential to disrupt hormones and its possible carcinogenic effects.
11. Propylene Glycol (E1520)
This thickening agent, found in salad dressings, ice cream, and cake mix, may cause allergic reactions and irritate the skin or eyes in sensitive individuals.
12. Carrageenan (E407)
A thickener derived from seaweed, carrageenan is found in dairy alternatives, ice cream, and processed meats. It may cause inflammation and digestive issues in some people.
13. TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone - E319)
Common in processed snacks and frozen foods, TBHQ is a preservative that has been linked to nausea, dizziness, and, in large amounts, DNA damage.
How to Avoid Harmful Additives
Reading labels is one of the best ways to protect yourself from these harmful additives, but with long, confusing ingredient lists, it can be overwhelming. That’s where the Chem-Eleon app comes in. This smart and easy-to-use tool lets you search for additives by name or number while you shop, giving you instant insights into what you’re eating. Whether you’re looking to avoid allergens or cut back on artificial ingredients, Chem-Eleon empowers you to make better choices.
Your health is in your hands. By staying informed and using tools like Chem-Eleon, you can navigate the supermarket with confidence and avoid the additives that might be doing more harm than good. Let’s shop smarter and live healthier!