This is how dangerous preservatives really are

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Preservatives are used to give food products a long shelf life. They are considered extremely harmful to health.

Preservatives protect food from spoiling by inhibiting the growth of molds and bacteria. They also help to preserve taste and appearance. However, the substances and food products with a long shelf life are known to be hazardous to health.

But it all depends on the quantity, as Nadia Leuenberger, nutritionist and managing director at Peak Nutrition, reveals: “Preservatives become dangerous to health in large quantities and if consumed regularly.”

Like thickeners, chemical preservatives are classified as additives and must be declared on the list of ingredients. If chemical preservatives are used, they are usually sorbic acid (E 200) or natamycin (E 235). Sorbic acid is used for dried fruit, cheese or wine. Preservatives are also used in sausages, baked goods, and potato products.
According to a study, a majority of the substances added to food are said to increase the risk of cancer. According to author John O. Warner, this applies to benzoic acid and benzoate preservatives (E 210-213). These are used in candied fruit or sugar-reduced jam, for example. “Numerous publications indicate that benzoate preservatives increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and may be carcinogenic,” the study states. Furthermore, a systematic review has shown that sodium benzoate preservatives can cause behavioral disorders in children.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) checks the quantities consumed in food without affecting health before approval. “EFSA has carried out several studies on sodium benzoate and its possible effects on behavior,” explains Leuenberger. EFSA stresses insufficient evidence to establish a causal relationship between sodium benzoate and behavioral disorders. “However, it recognizes that possible effects cannot be excluded in sensitive individuals.”

But what can you do to avoid exposing yourself to the risk? The expert gives the all-clear: “Although some preservatives can form potentially carcinogenic substances in high doses or under certain conditions, most studies and assessments show that the amounts normally used are considered safe.” Leuenberger advises people to eat a balanced diet and rarely eat highly processed foods. This can help to minimize potential risks. “My credo: choose less processed food and cook a lot of fresh food yourself.”