Hey there, friend! Today, we’re diving into the colorful world of artificial colors and preservatives—those sneaky ingredients that make your food look prettier and last longer but might be doing a number on your body and mind. Grab your favorite snack (preferably one without a neon glow), and let’s break down what these additives are really doing to us.
The Rainbow Isn’t Always Bright: The Truth About Artificial Colors
Artificial colors are everywhere—from your breakfast cereal to that tempting candy. But these bright, fun hues might come with some not-so-fun side effects. Studies have linked synthetic food dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5 to behavioral issues in children, including hyperactivity and attention disorders. A report from UC Berkeley and UC Davis found that these dyes could trigger neurobehavioral problems, especially in kids who are already vulnerable to such issues. In fact, the FDA’s guidelines for these dyes are based on decades-old research that doesn’t reflect today’s understanding of their effects on developing brains (Berkeley Public Health).
But it’s not just the kids who need to worry. Some artificial dyes have been linked to more serious health risks, like cancer. For example, Red 3, which is still used in some food products, has been shown to cause thyroid tumors in animal studies. And while the FDA insists that most people won’t consume enough of these dyes to cause harm, do you really want to take that chance with something that’s purely for show? (NutritionFacts.org).
Preservatives: The Not-So-Fresh Side of Food Preservation
Now let’s talk about preservatives—those chemicals that keep your food from spoiling before you get a chance to eat it. While it’s nice not to worry about your bread going moldy after two days, preservatives like BHA, BHT, and sodium nitrite come with their own set of health risks. BHA and BHT, commonly found in processed foods like cereal and chips, have been linked to cancer in animal studies. These preservatives are antioxidants, but not the good kind. Instead of protecting your body, they’re there to prevent oils in food from going rancid. And while the FDA considers them safe in small amounts, long-term exposure might be another story (Everyday Health).
Sodium nitrite, often used in processed meats like bacon and hot dogs, is another preservative with a dark side. When it’s cooked at high temperatures, it can form nitrosamines—compounds that are known to be carcinogenic. Regular consumption of these processed meats has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, so you might want to think twice before loading up your next breakfast plate with bacon (Harvard Health).
WHY AREN’T WE HEARING ABOUT THIS?
Why don’t we hear more about these risks? The answer, unsurprisingly, is money. The food industry relies heavily on artificial colors and preservatives to make products look more appealing and last longer on the shelves. If consumers knew the full extent of the risks, it could lead to a massive drop in sales, and that’s something big companies can’t afford. Instead, they push the narrative that these additives are safe and necessary, downplaying any research that suggests otherwise.
NATURAL ALTERNATIVES: KEEPING IT REAL (& SAFE)
So, what can you do if you want to avoid these chemical additives? Luckily, there are plenty of natural alternatives out there that can keep your food safe and tasty without the risks.
- Natural Colors: Many companies are turning to natural sources like beet juice, turmeric, and spirulina to color their products. These options not only avoid the risks associated with artificial dyes but often come with added health benefits from the nutrients in these plants.
- Natural Preservatives: Ingredients like vinegar, salt, and rosemary extract have been used for centuries to preserve food. They’re effective and safe, and they don’t come with the health risks associated with synthetic preservatives.
- Fresh, Whole Foods: The best way to avoid artificial additives is to stick to fresh, whole foods. Fruits, vegetables, and fresh meats don’t need added chemicals to be safe and delicious.
the gist
the good shit
•MAKES FOOD LOOK LIKE A RAINBOW: Artificial colors give your food that vibrant, eye-catching appeal. Who wouldn’t want neon-blue yogurt or bright red candy? It’s like eating a rainbow, minus the pot of gold at the end.
•KEEPS FOOD AROUND LONGER: Thanks to preservatives, that loaf of bread you bought two weeks ago is still soft and mold-free. It’s like having a time machine for your food—because who doesn’t want their food to last until the next century?
•CHEAP AND CHEERFUL: Artificial colors and preservatives are dirt cheap, helping keep food prices low. Because nothing says “value for money” like a heaping dose of chemicals!
THE BULLSHIT
•TURNS KIDS INTO TINY TORNADOES: Ever wondered why your child is bouncing off the walls after a snack? Artificial colors like Red 40 and Yellow 5 have been linked to hyperactivity and attention issues. It’s like a sugar rush on steroids (Berkeley Public Health).
•CARCINOGENS IN YOUR CANDY: Some artificial colors, like Red 3, have been linked to cancer in animal studies. So, while that candy might look pretty, it could be hiding a not-so-sweet secret (NutritionFacts.org).
•PRESERVING YOUR FOOD – AND YOUR HEALTH RISKS: Preservatives like BHA and BHT keep your food fresh, but they’ve also been linked to cancer. And sodium nitrite? It’s great for making bacon last longer but could also be helping to preserve your spot in the oncology ward (Harvard Health).
•SECRET SABOTEURS: These sneaky additives don’t just make your food look and last better; they’re also contributing to a whole host of health issues that big food companies would rather you not know about. It’s like a conspiracy theory you can eat.
the verdict
At the end of the day, artificial colors and preservatives might make your food look and last better, but they come with a laundry list of potential health risks that just aren’t worth it. Big companies might not want you to know the truth, but armed with this knowledge, you can make better choices for yourself and your family. It’s time to ditch the additives and embrace foods that are as real as you are.
Stay informed, stay empowered, and remember: knowledge is your best defense against bullshit!
Share to clear up the bullshit!
