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The Hidden Dangers of Food Additives and E - Numbers:
A Threat to Your Health, Allergies, and Brain Function.
The Hidden Dangers of Food Additives and E - Numbers:
A Threat to Your Health, Allergies, and Brain Function.
In today's fast-paced world, processed and convenience foods have become a staple in many households. However, these foods often contain a cocktail of chemical additives and E numbers—ingredients that can have detrimental effects on our health, exacerbate allergies, and impair brain function. While these substances are deemed safe by regulatory bodies, emerging research suggests that they may not be as harmless as they seem. (a list of e-numbers can be found further down on this page).
Health Risks of Food Additives
Many food additives serve as preservatives, flavor enhancers, or colorants, but their long-term impact on human health is concerning. Certain artificial additives, such as sodium benzoate (E211) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA, E320), have been linked to increased risks of cancer and metabolic disorders. Additionally, trans fats—often disguised under E numbers—have been directly associated with cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes.
Moreover, artificial sweeteners like aspartame (E951) and saccharin (E954) have sparked debate due to their potential links to increased cravings, insulin resistance, and even neurological effects. While marketed as a healthier alternative to sugar, these additives may contribute to a range of metabolic issues.
Impact on Brain Function
One of the most alarming aspects of food additives is their potential impact on cognitive function and mental health. Studies suggest that artificial food colorings and preservatives can contribute to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, leading to difficulties in focus, impulse control, and learning abilities.
Monosodium glutamate (MSG, E621), a common flavour enhancer, has also been linked to neurotoxicity. Some individuals report symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and brain fog after consuming foods containing MSG. Long-term exposure may even contribute to neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Allergic Reactions and Sensitivities
Food additives are known triggers for allergies and food intolerances. Some individuals are particularly sensitive to sulfites (E220-E228), which are commonly used in dried fruits, wines, and processed foods to preserve freshness. Sulfites can cause severe allergic reactions, including asthma attacks, skin rashes, and digestive distress.
Similarly, artificial food colourings—such as tartrazine (E102) and sunset yellow (E110)—have been linked to hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The presence of these additives in everyday foods makes it challenging for those with allergies to avoid adverse health effects.
Making Healthier Choices
To minimize exposure to harmful food additives, it is crucial to adopt a diet centered around whole, unprocessed foods. Reading food labels carefully and avoiding products with a long list of unrecognizable ingredients can significantly reduce the intake of artificial additives. Cooking from scratch and choosing organic products can also help limit exposure to potentially harmful substances.
Conclusion
While food additives and E numbers serve the purpose of enhancing food preservation and taste, their potential risks to health, allergies, and brain function should not be overlooked. Being informed about the hidden dangers in processed foods can empower individuals to make healthier choices and prioritize natural, whole-food diets for better long-term well-being.
A selection of bad e-numbers - to note - not all E-Numbers are bad , refer to the last paragraph at the end of this list:
E-Number Name Why It's Bad for You
E102 Tartrazine - Linked to hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions, and potential carcinogenic effects.
E110 Sunset Yellow FCF - Can cause allergic reactions, hyperactivity, and digestive issues.
E120 Cochineal (Carmine) - May trigger severe allergic reactions, especially in those with insect allergies.
E122 Azorubine - May trigger asthma, skin rashes, and hyperactivity in sensitive individuals.
E123 Amaranth - Banned in some countries due to its potential carcinogenic effects and links to allergic reactions.
E124 Ponceau 4R - Associated with hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions, and possible links to cancer.
E129 Allura Red - Associated with allergies, ADHD-like behavior, and potential carcinogenic effects.
E150d Sulfite Ammonia Caramel - Found in sodas; may cause digestive issues and is linked to high blood pressure.
E151 Brilliant Black BN - Banned in some countries, linked to allergic reactions, potential carcinogenic effects, and hyperactivity.
E171 Titanium Dioxide - Used in candies and processed foods; may damage DNA and contribute to inflammation.
E200 Sorbic Acid - Can cause skin irritation and digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
E211 Sodium Benzoate - Can trigger hyperactivity, may react with vitamin C to form benzene (a known carcinogen).
E212 Potassium Benzoate - A preservative that may cause allergic reactions, hyperactivity, and irritation of the digestive system.
E213 Calcium Benzoate - A preservative that may cause allergic reactions, asthma, and hyperactivity in sensitive individuals.
E216 Propyl Paraben - Potential endocrine disruptor, linked to hormone imbalance and possible carcinogenic effects.
E220 Sulfur Dioxide - Causes respiratory issues, especially in asthmatics, and can trigger allergic reactions.
E221 Sodium Sulfite - Can trigger allergic reactions, digestive discomfort, and respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
E223 Sodium Metabisulfite - May cause asthma attacks, allergic reactions, and irritation in sensitive individuals.
E226 Calcium Sulfite - Used as a preservative, can cause allergic reactions, asthma, and respiratory issues.
E249 Potassium Nitrite - Used in processed meats, linked to an increased risk of cancer and can form carcinogenic nitrosamines.
E250 Sodium Nitrite - Used in processed meats, linked to an increased risk of cancer and heart disease.
E251 Sodium Nitrate - Can form carcinogenic nitrosamines when heated or combined with stomach acid.
E320 Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) - Potential carcinogen, linked to hormone disruption.
E321 Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) - Can disrupt endocrine function and may be linked to cancer.
E338 Phosphoric Acid - Found in sodas/fizzy drinks, contributes to bone loss and kidney disease.
E385 Calcium Disodium EDTA - Used as a preservative; may cause digestive and kidney issues.
E420 Sorbitol - Can cause bloating, diarrhea, and digestive discomfort.
E512 Stannous Chloride - Used in canned foods, may cause toxicity in large amounts and has been linked to gastrointestinal issues.
E621 Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) - Linked to headaches, brain fog, and potential neurotoxicity.
E627 Disodium Guanylate - Can cause digestive discomfort and hyperactivity, especially when combined with MSG.
E951 Aspartame - Possible carcinogen, associated with headaches, dizziness, and neurological effects.
E954 Saccharin - May be linked to bladder cancer in some studies and can disrupt gut bacteria.
Not all E- Numbers are bad. The letter E (for Europe) together with its number, simply means it's been tested by the powers-that-be in the EU and gives it an easily identifiable code to make it easy to look up. Natural substances like vitamin C (E300), paprika (E160c) and even oxygen (E948) each have an eNumber assigned to them, along with many other naturally occurring substances.
All added preservatives have been tested (and therefore have E-Numbers) and most are safe in small amounts (within ascribed recommended daily intake limits) and - rather than being 'bad' chemicals - have actually helped to remove the threat of serious food poisoning such as that caused by botulism.
Many people are concerned about the long-term effects of consuming certain 'E-Numbers' and especially the effect they could have on children. 'E-Numbers' do go through lengthy testing processes before being unleashed on the public, but some have proven links to negative side effects on certain consumer groups. Often though it’s because a person is particularly sensitive to an ingredient or element within that chemical, or because it exacerbates an existing condition they have.
For a full list that includes colours, preservatives, Sweeteners, Antioxidants, etc, visist the the UK - Food.gov site - https://www.food.gov.uk/business-guidance/approved-additives-and-e-numbers
PDF List - https://www.food.gov.uk/print/pdf/node/847
Food alerts - https://www.food.gov.uk/search?keywords=&filter_type%5BFood%20alert%5D=Food%20alert
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