Food additives become a part of a food product when added intentionally or unintentionally during processing, report researchers at the National Institutes of Health. Additives are included in food processing to maintain the product's consistency and provide color. Additives are also used to control alkaline and acid levels in some foods to obtain a certain flavor or taste. The wholesomeness often is preserved with additives that reduce bacteria that form from air, fungus and yeast. Some additives fortify a product by adding minerals and vitamins. Some additives are considered harmful to humans and animals and should be avoided.
Sodium Nitrite
Sodium nitrite haz been found to create cancer causing chemicals when added to meat products, report researchers at the Center for Science in the Public Interest. Sodium nitrite is used to preserve the red coloring in processed and cured meat products and provide the taste expected by consumers. Fried bacon is one of the most dangerous foods that promote the creation of sodium nitrites. Food manufacturers add ascorbic acid to reduce the formation of sodium nitrites, making them safer. The Center for Science in the Public Interest reports that they should be avoided however, especially by pregnant women.
BHA
BHA, or butylated hydroxyanisole, is an additive that prevents fats and oils from becoming rancid. BHA has been shown to cause cancer in rats, hamsters and mice and may be carcinogenic to humans. BHA is a synthetic chemical that is typically found in potato chips, chewing gum, cereals and vegetable oil. BHT is a closely related chemical additive used in the same products that also may cause cancer and should be avoided.
Aspartame
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that is used in the production of Equal and NutraSweet and is used to sweeten soft drinks and other diet foods. Researchers at the Center for Science in the Public Interest report that aspartame can cause neurological conditions such as dizziness or hallucinations. Lifelong use of aspartame may increase the risk of cancer. The artificial sweetener is made from a combination of methanol and amino acids.
Olestra
Olestra is a synthetic fat used to add flavor to products, such as Pringles Light Chips and Lay's Light Chips. The fat is not absorbed by the digestive system, a plus for people trying to lose weight. While an occasional serving may not be harmful, continued use of olestra can cause the body to stop absorbing valuable fat-soluble carotenoids from fruit and vegetables, nutrients that help to prevent cancer. Side effects from olestra can be severe and include diarrhea, cramps and loose stools.
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