Manufacturers have used it for over 70 years to prevent the growth of microorganisms in acidic foods.
Occurs naturally in fruit, sugar cane, and sugar beets. Americans consume 100 pounds of it refined per year. Makes up about one-sixth of the average diet, but contains no vitamins, minerals, or protein. Tastes good and supplies energy, but most people eat too much of it.
occurs naturally in the berries of the mountain ash. Used to prevent growth of mold and bacteria.
A gas that prevents discoloration of dried apricots, apples, and similar foods. Prevents bacterial growth in wine and other foods. This additive destroys vitamin B-1 but is otherwise safe
A powder that prevents discoloration of dried apricots, apples, and similar foods. Prevents bacterial growth in wine and other foods. This additive destroys vitamin B-1 but is otherwise safe
Used liberally in many processed foods. Other additives contribute additional sodium. A diet high in sodium may cause high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Everyone should use it less.
6 True/False Question
Sodium Nitrate → Can lead to the formation of small amounts of potent canser-causing chemicals (nitrosamines), particularly in fried bacon. Tolerated in foods because it can prevent the growth of bacteria that cause botulism poisoning. Also stabilizes the red color in cured meat and gives a characteristic flavor. Companies should find better ways to prevent botulism
Ethyl Vanillin → Vanilla flavoring derived from a bean, but cheaper to produce synthetically. Safe
Polysorbate 60 → Occurs naturally in fruits and berries and is a close relative of the sugars. Half as sweet as sugar. Used in non-cariogenic chewing gum because oral bacteria do not metabolize it well. Large amounts of sorbitol (2 oz. for adults) have a laxative effect, but otherwise it is safe. Diabetics use sorbitol, because it is absorbed slowly and does not cause blood sugar to increase rapidly.
Saccharin → Occurs naturally in fruit, sugar cane, and sugar beets. Americans consume 100 pounds of it refined per year. Makes up about one-sixth of the average diet, but contains no vitamins, minerals, or protein. Tastes good and supplies energy, but most people eat too much of it.
Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose → made by reacting cellulose with a derivative of acetic acid. Studies indicate that it is safe.
Quinine → This drug can cure malaria and is used as a bitter flavoring in a few soft drinks. There is a slight chance that quinine may cause birth defects, so pregnant women should avoid quinine-containing beverages and drugs. Poorly tested