Toxic food: Monosodium glutamate is used to intensify, enhance the flavour

1. Monosodium Glutamate for flavour

Monosodium glutamate is used to intensify and enhance the flavour of savoury dishes. It’s found in a variety of processed foods such as frozen dinners, salty snacks and canned soups. It’s also often added to foods at restaurants and fast food places.

MSG has been a subject of heated controversy since a 1969 study of mice found that large amounts caused harmful neurological effects and impaired growth and development.

MSG adds extra sodium that can also elevate blood pressure. MSG consumption has also been associated with weight gain and metabolic syndrome in some observational studies. 

2. Sodium Nitrate in bacons and sausages

Frequently added to processed meats such as bacon, ham and sausage, sodium nitrite acts as a preservative to prevent the growth of bacteria while also adding a salty flavour and reddish-pink colour.

When exposed to high heat and in the presence of amino acids, nitrites can turn into nitrosamine, a compound that can have many negative effects on health. World Health Organisation warns that processed meats were now classified as a group 1 carcinogen, meaning scientists were certain that there was “sufficient” evidence that they caused cancer, particularly colon cancer.

One review showed that a higher intake of nitrites and nitrosamine was associated with a higher risk of stomach cancer. Many other studies have found a similar association, reporting that a higher intake of processed meats may be linked to a higher risk of colorectal, breast and bladder cancer.

Other studies suggest that nitrosamine exposure may also be linked to a higher incidence of type 1 diabetes, although findings are inconsistent.

3. Potassium Bromate in bread, dough

This is a common food additive used to strengthen bread and cracker dough, helping it rise during baking. However, it is illegal in many countries for a good reason. It’s been known to induce tumours in animal studies since the early 1980s, with studies showing that bromate causes cancer in the thyroid and kidneys.

Studies also suggest that it causes oxidative damage within the body. Though once baked, it converts to potassium bromide, which has been deemed as non-carcinogenic, some residues exist. It has been banned in the United Kingdom, European Union and Canada.

4. Propyl Gallate used as antioxide

Propyl gallate is a compound commonly used as an antioxidant for various food products such as animal fats and vegetable oil. Likewise, the chemical is used as a preservative in other oil-containing foods such as soup bases, chewing gum, and cereals as well as meat products, mayonnaise to boost their shelf life and prevent spoilage.

A National Toxicology Program study in rats showed it is carcinogenic as it caused brain tumours. It has also been found to be extremely detrimental to the respiratory tract. It may trigger the onset of allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and breathing difficulties. 

5. Propylene Glycol used as additive

Propylene glycol and Carboxymethylcellulose are preservatives and regular additives of ice cream. Propylene glycol is usually used as an antifreeze and a paint remover. It is the more sinister chemical out of these two preservatives, and many countries have discontinued its use.

Carboxymethylcellulose on the other hand is used as a stabiliser. It is usually used in salad dressing, cheese spread, and chocolate milk. A study on rats concluded that carboxymethylcellulose instigates tumour production.

6. Sodium sulfite to preserve meat

These additives help stabilise, colour, flavour meat, and prevent harmful bacterial growth. But when meat is heated at high temperatures or combined with stomach acid, sodium nitrite produces nitrosamines. Nitrosamines are linked to an increased risk of pancreatic and colorectal cancer.

Several toxicological reports have concluded that sodium sulfite can be an irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Those who handle the substance are requested to wear proper, protective gear at all times. In 1986 the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of sodium sulphites in fresh fruits and  vegetables.

In an exposé by a local TV station that has left Kenyans shocked, supermarkets, restaurants and butcheries have been found to use this toxic chemical to make their meat look fresher for longer. 

7. Brominated oils to preserve juice

These oils are used to preserve bottled juice for extended periods of time. Brominated juice is used quite widely and can lead to potential damaging and serious side effects.

It can trigger changes in heart tissue, kidney damage, thyroid swelling, increase fatty deposits in your liver and can even cause withered testicles. Many countries have insisted that brominated oils be banned for preserving bottled drinks.

8. Aspartame used in sugar-free products

This is a low-calorie sweetener consisting of two amino acids, namely phenylalanine and aspartic acid. Because it is about 200 times sweeter than sugar, little is required to get a sweet taste.

Aspartame is usually found in diet or sugar-free sodas, diet coke, desserts, sugar-free gum, drink mixes, baking goods, table-top sweeteners, cereal, breath mints, pudding, iced tea, and toothpaste.

While watching calorie consumption is important, using artificial additives and sweeteners such as aspartame may cause some health risks. Studies have shown that aspartame may elevate blood glucose and increase anxiety.

9. Maleic Hydrazide added to potatoes

This preservative is usually added to potatoes to keep them from sprouting. It is a known chemical inhibitor and can even lead to cancer.

10. Benzoates in margarine  

It is a synthetic compound that appears as white crystal scales or needles with a faint urine, almond odour. It is most commonly used as a food preservative added to pickle, margarine, fruit puree and juices.

Benzoic acid and sodium benzoate, its salt form, can inhibit the growth of yeast, a major cause of food spoilage. Benzoic acid can irritate the skin and cause serious eye damage.

In addition, it is harmful when ingested and can damage certain organs through prolonged or repeated exposure. Benzoates can induce allergies and even lead to brain damage.