Food preservatives are substances added to foods to prevent or delay spoilage, maintain their freshness, and extend their shelf life. They can be natural or synthetic, and are often used in processed foods, such as canned or packaged foods.
Some commonly used food preservatives include:
Nitrites and nitrates: commonly used in processed meats like bacon, sausage, and lunch meats.
Sulfites: used to preserve dried fruits, wine, and other fermented foods.
Benzoates: commonly used in soft drinks, fruit juices, and pickles.
Sorbates: used in cheese, baked goods, and dried fruits.
Propionates: used in baked goods, dairy products, and processed meats.
While food preservatives can help prevent spoilage and increase the shelf life of foods, they can have potential negative effects on health. Some preservatives have been linked to health issues such as allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and gastrointestinal issues. For example, some people may experience asthma-like symptoms when exposed to sulfites. Additionally, some studies have linked preservatives to cancer, though the evidence is not conclusive.
It’s important to note that not all preservatives are harmful, and many are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, if you are concerned about the potential health effects of food preservatives, you can choose to consume fresh, unprocessed foods, or look for preservative-free options when purchasing packaged or processed foods.
Dr Neeraj Kaushik founder Kaushik Acupuncture & complementary medicine, best acupuncturist in Delhi NCR