Most people now know that ready meals and the like are unhealthy. But which ingredients and additives are particularly dangerous? We explain which 3 ingredients in food can have a carcinogenic effect.
A balanced, nutritious diet is the basis for a healthy body. It is best to eat only fresh, unprocessed foods. In stressful everyday life, however, this is not always feasible, so that one or the other finished product ends up on our plates. But what should you look out for when it comes to the ingredients? We explain which additives are harmful to health.
Table of Contents
Carcinogenic effect: 3 ingredients in food
1. E102 – Tartrazin
E102 tartrazine is a synthetic yellow dye that poses a health risk. It is increasingly found as a food coloring in products such as mustard, fish and meat substitutes, liqueur and wine, sweets, cakes and biscuits. It can cause skin rashes and shortness of breath and is also suspected of being carcinogenic . In children, the substance can increase existing hyperactivity or ADHD, which is why foods must be labeled accordingly. Despite its questionable effects, E102 tartrazine is allowed in the EU, but according to the European Food Safety Authority you should not(EFSA) consume no more than 7.5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. In products with organic quality, the additive, like most other synthetic substances, is prohibited.
2. E123 – Amaranth
E123 Amaranth is a chemically produced red food coloring that is usually found in spirits, liqueurs or caviar. According to studies, it can cause health problems such as allergic skin reactions or shortness of breath. In Europe, the use of E123 amaranth in food is permitted, but in the USA it is classified as carcinogenic and is therefore prohibited there.
3. E951 – Aspartame
E951 aspartame is a controversial man-made sweetener. The low-calorie white powder is many times sweeter than sugar and is found in many different foods. These include, for example, soft drinks, sweets, chewing gum or dairy products. Whether E951 aspartame is harmful to health has been controversial for a long time. It is suspected of being able to trigger health problems such as headaches or memory loss. In an animal experiment by scientists from Bologna, mice developed cancer after ingesting large amounts of aspartame. According to experts, however, there are no reliable studies that prove a connection between the consumption of aspartame and cancer.
By the way : Only 47 of 316 food additives are permitted in organic products. So, whenever possible, choose organic food.
Also interesting: These 5 foods are carcinogenic – according to Stiftung Warentest >>
