There are still many assumptions that state that preservatives in food are harmful to health and can cause disease. In fact, there are dangerous food preservatives, but there are also some food preservatives that are classified as safe.
Food preservatives are used to inhibit or prevent decomposition, acidification, damage, and the fermentation process in food, which is caused by bacteria, fungi, and microbes.
Basic Principles of Use of Food Preservatives
Basically, preservatives may be used as long as they have been registered and their use is permitted in the proper dosage by the Food and Drug Administration.
Some food preservatives that are safe and often used are sulfur dioxide, sorbic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, and malic acid
Although some of them are safe, you also need to know dangerous food preservatives. If consumed in the long run, these ingredients can cause serious health problems. Here are some examples of food preservatives and their dangers to the body:
1. Formalin and borax
Both of these preservatives can cause interference with the skin, heart, respiratory system, and kidneys. Formalin and borax can even damage the brain and nervous system.
2. Sodium benzoate
It is suspected that if this ingredient is used as a food preservative, the risk of developing hyperactive behavior, leukemia, and other types of cancer can increase.
3. Sodium nitrate
The use of preservatives in food is thought to damage blood vessels and make arteries stiff and narrow.
4. TBHQ or tertiary butylhydroquinone
This preservative can increase the risk of tumor growth, disrupt liver function, and damage nerves.
Foods that do not need to use preservatives
Actually not all foods must use preservatives. The use of preservatives is needed to maintain freshness and quality of food, so they can still be consumed within a certain period. Generally, the types of food that need preservatives are foods that have high or moist water content.
One type of food that does not need preservatives is dry food products, such as chips or snacks. These foods have low moisture and moisture content, so the risk of growing bacteria, yeast, and fungus is also small. Especially if the dry food is packaged properly.
It is important to pay attention to the type of preservatives used in the food that you will consume. Make sure the preservatives used are safe, and as much as possible do not consume them excessively.
If you feel that you are experiencing health problems due to frequent consumption of foods with unsafe preservatives, do not hesitate to see a doctor.
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