9 Potentially Dangerous Food Additives You’re Eating Without Knowing

Wouldn’t it be nice if you didn’t have to second-guess the safety of the food you buy at the grocery store? Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Some common additives hidden in your favorite products could be doing more harm than good. From preservatives to sweeteners, these ingredients might not be on your radar, but they’re often lurking in everyday items in your pantry and fridge. Take a closer look at what’s really in your food and see why you might want to think twice before eating it.

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Aspartame

Aspartame is a low-calorie sweetener found in diet sodas and sugar-free products. It has been linked to headaches, dizziness, and there are controversial studies suggesting potential carcinogenic effects with high consumption.

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Monosodium Glutamate, or MSG, is used to enhance flavor in snacks, soups, and Chinese foods. It is associated with symptoms such as headaches, sweating, and facial pressure, although extensive research shows it is safe for most people in moderation.

High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)

High-Fructose Corn Syrup is a sweetener made from corn starch and is commonly found in sodas, sweets, and processed foods. It is often criticized for contributing to obesity and diabetes by disrupting normal appetite regulation.

Trans Fats

Trans fats are created by adding hydrogen to vegetable oil and are found in some fried foods, baked goods, and processed snack foods. They are known to raise bad cholesterol levels and lower good cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease.

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Sodium Benzoate

Sodium Benzoate is used as a preservative in acidic foods such as salad dressings, carbonated drinks, and fruit juices. It has been shown to exacerbate asthma and is linked to hyperactivity in children.

Artificial Food Dyes

Artificial food dyes, found in candies, beverages, and processed foods, have been controversial due to links to hyperactivity in children and potential cancer risk. Studies have prompted ongoing debate about their safety and the need for more natural alternatives.

BHA and BHT

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are preservatives found in cereals, chewing gum, potato chips, and vegetable oils. These chemicals are added to prevent food from spoiling and to retain color, but they have been linked to cancer risk in animal studies, raising concerns about their safety in human consumption.

Salad dressings in jars.Photo byDepositphotos.

Sulfites

Sulfites are chemicals used as preservatives in foods and beverages, such as dried fruit, wine, and processed meats. They help to prevent browning and spoilage. However, sulfites can trigger severe asthma attacks in sensitive individuals and may cause allergic reactions and digestive disturbances.

Potassium Bromate

Potassium Bromate is used primarily in bread and roll flour to improve flour strength and rise height. Although it is banned in several countries due to cancer concerns, it remains in use in others, including the United States. It has been shown to cause tumors in animals, and there is concern about its safety for human consumption.