Reading food labels can be a
challenge. From acesulfame-k to zeranol, from safe to questionable - it is
important for the consumer to understand the ingredients in processed foods.
Acesulfame K - Acesulfame
Potassium. This sweetener is non-nutritive and is 200 times sweeter than
sugar. It is often found in gum, powdered drink mixes, sweets, canned
fruits and gelatins. According to the FDA, their four animal studies did
not show toxic effects. The Center for Science in the Public Interest said
their study resulted in double the tumors in animals who were fed the sweetener
than animals that were not. The FDA responded to this, concluding, "any
tumors found were typical of what could routinely be expected and were not due
to feeding with acesulfame K."
Acetate - This is the
salt of acidic acid. It is used in beverage flavorings and in items such
as honey, vanilla, coffee, nut, pineapple and cheeses. It can also be
found in icecream, cakes, candy and perfume.
Acetic Acid - This is
found naturally in oranges, grapes, skim milk, coffee, vinegar and many fruits
and vegetables. It can be found in animal feed, baked products and in
cheeses. It can also be found in products such as hair dyes and bleaches.
There is a possibility of skin irritation with these products. This item
has been found to cause cancer in rats.
Acetostearin - Derived
from oils and fat and is used as a protective coating for food. Used as an
emulsifier.
Betaine - Found in
vegetables such as beets and in some animal sources. Often found in
dietary substances and is also used as a food coloring. Not known to be
toxic to animals or humans.
Borneol - Used to flavor
with a nut essence in items such as beverages, syrup, candy, gum, icecream and
baked goods. Also used in perfumes. Borneol is found naturally in
thyme, nutmeg, citronella, ginger oil, coriander, rosemary, strawberries and
citronella. Borneol may cause nausea, vomiting and dizziness.
Bromelin - This
originates from an enzyme in pineapple. It is often used as a tenderizer
and can also be found in medication used for inflammation.
Butyl Lactate - Used to
flavor icecream, candy drinks and baked items. It may be synthetic,
however it is possible for this to contain lactic acid derived from dairy.
Bibliography:
Winter, Ruth, M.S. A Consumer's Dictionary
of Food Additives. New York: Three Rivers Press, 1994.
