Food additives are substances added to foods with the aim of maintaining or improving its flavor and/or prolonging its shelf life. However, some of these additions are harmful to the body, which have even been banned in some countries. What worries us is that, in Brazil, many of them are still consumed. Therefore, in today's article, we are going to make available 5 things that are prohibited abroad and consumed by us Brazilians.
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5 additives banned in other countries, but consumed by Brazilians
The article aims to warn people who consume these additives that are harmful to the body, showing why some of them were even banned in other countries.
Check out what these additives are now:
1. aquaculture salmon
The feed of this salmon has several additives that leave residues in the meat, which can impair its visual qualities. In addition, when eating this type of salmon, you end up consuming synthetic canthaxanthin, an antioxidant that can cause adverse effects such as anemia, nausea and diarrhea. There is also the environmental impact that synthetic canthaxanthin causes, as it increases the number of parasites and strengthens disease-causing microorganisms.
2. ractopamine
This additive is included in the feed of production animals – such as pigs – to help with muscle development. According to a study, it was found that Ractopamine raises the heart rate in the human body. In animals, this substance can be toxic and leave them at risk of exposure. Ractopamine is banned in 50 countries. In Brazil, meat producers do not use it, as importers do not accept it. However, the substance is still highly defended in the country.
3. artificial dyes
Dyes are made with petroleum-derived elements and their consumption can cause various types of cancer. Such substances are banned in the following countries: Norway, Austria, Finland, United Kingdom and France. They are also restricted in the European Union. In Brazil, the only artificial dye that is banned is quinoline yellow (E104).
4. Arsenic-tainted chicken
Arsenic is used to treat diseases in birds and in the development of the animal. Such a substance is carcinogenic and can also migrate to groundwater. This additive is still sold in Brazil.
5. BHA and BHT preservatives
Such preservatives are carcinogenic agents and can cause systemic poisoning. It is used to prevent rancidity and oxidation of oils. They are banned in several countries, but still consumed in Brazil.