Did you know that there are over 3000 different Preservatives & Additives in our foods? Children's foods are certainly not exempt! The average person consumes their body weight equivalent of these chemicals every year! This industry is not adequately regulated, and there are recommended levels that are still not safe for human consumption. Up to 30% cases of ADD/ADHD are closely linked to the chemical toxicity of food, esp colourings like yellow #6 which contains tartrazine/coal tar, or red #40, or any “natural colouring”. Below is a list of the more popular additives and preservatives. These should be avoided, especially by children:
Benzidine
A yellow colour additive, and is one of the most dangerous. The recommended use is 1 part/billion however some foods have been recorded as having 5 parts/billion and as high as 941 parts/billion. It is often found in children’s vitamins, lollies and treats - the most susceptible age group to chemical intake.
Lead derivatives may be used to make food colourings. No level of lead exposure is safe.
Caramel flavour
Ammonia based and mixed with GMO corn! It does not resemble caramel what so ever! No level of caramel flavour or colouring is safe for consumption especially for children. Check your snacks and food packages, you will be surprised at how often it is used.
Sulphites/Benzoic Acid
Commonly used in children's medications, and foods such as dried apricots (sulphuring dried fruit is common place in Australia). These preservatives have been associated with various blood disorders.
Nitrates
This preservative has been shown to inhibit cells from carrying oxygen. All processed meats contain these salts unless indicated (except baby foods).
MSG
There are 60 different names for MSG! It is a popular flavour enhancer that has the ability to cross the blood brain barrier affecting neurons! Symptoms include headaches, vomiting, nausea, cramps and dizziness. Babies, children and seniors are at highest risk of adverse reactions to MSG. A common name for MSG is yeast extract and you may find this in foods such as flavoured chips, biscuits and stock. Its use is prolific!
The list goes on and on. These are but a few to consider when you are purchasing or cooking food. If you want your children to grow and develop to their healthiest potential, you must become Preservative and Additive Aware
This is so scary as a mother. Why are our food regulators allowing the use of these additives? The use of preservative 'numbers' is mystifying for consumers and frustrating as a mum trying to make choices for her family. Why is our nation so behind other developed nations in this area? Thanks for the great info Mel!
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