Packed foods are convenient and can be a lifesaver when we’re short on time. However many of these foods contain preservatives, which can harm our health.
Preservatives are substances that are added to food to prevent it from spoiling. They can be natural or synthetic. Some common preservatives include:
Sulfites: Sulfites are used to prevent browning in food and to preserve wine. They can cause allergic reactions in some people, including hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.
Nitrates and nitrites: Nitrates and nitrites are used to preserve cured meats, such as bacon and sausage. They can react with other chemicals in the body to form compounds that have been linked to cancer.
Benzoic acid: Benzoic acid is used to preserve soft drinks, fruit juices, and salad dressings. It can cause allergic reactions in some people, and it may also interfere with the absorption of vitamin C.
Propylene glycol: Propylene glycol is used to keep food moist and prevent it from freezing. It is also used in cosmetics and personal care products. Propylene glycol is generally considered safe, but it can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA): BHA is used to prevent fats and oils from becoming rancid. It is also used in cosmetics and personal care products. BHA has been linked to cancer in animal studies, but the results of human studies are inconclusive.
Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT): BHT is similar to BHA and is used for the same purposes. It has also been linked to cancer in animal studies, but the results of human studies are inconclusive.
In addition to the potential health risks, preservatives can also make food less nutritious. For example, sulfites can destroy vitamin C, and nitrites can destroy vitamin B12.
If you want to reduce your exposure to preservatives, it’s best to eat fresh, unprocessed foods as much as possible. When you do buy packaged foods, look for products that have a short ingredient list and avoid those that contain artificial preservatives.
Here are some tips for avoiding packed food with preservatives:
- Read the labels carefully: Look for foods that have a short ingredient list and avoid those that contain artificial preservatives.
- Choose fresh, unprocessed foods: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are naturally preserved and don’t need added preservatives.
- Cook at home: When you cook at home, you control the ingredients that go into your food.
- Buy in bulk: Buying in bulk can help you save money and reduce food waste.
- Freeze food: Freezing food is a great way to preserve it without using preservatives.
By following these tips, you can reduce your exposure to preservatives and improve your health.
