NUTRITION
WHAT ARE PRESERVATIVES, REALLY? The Dirty Little Secrets in Processed Food I n the Fit Rise 365 program, we talk a lot about healing foods and clean eating. By now, you know all about the red flags you should look for and avoid, like processed foods packed with artificial colors and flavors, additives, and preservatives. But what exactly are those freaky things that big brands are shoveling into processed foods? Sodium Benzoate: Common in sodas and packaged foods, this man-made, odorless powder (technically the sodium salt of benzoic acid) is also found in baby wipes, toothpaste, and hair products. According to Healthline, it’s even used to stabilize photo processing and keep coolant from corroding the engine in your car.
Sulfur Dioxide: If you’ve ever smelled a burnt match, you’ve probably inhaled a bit of sulfur dioxide. This toxic gas is considered a harmful pollutant in the atmosphere, but it’s also used in soft drinks, dried fruits and vegetables, and alcoholic beverages as a preservative. The FDA tests and approves preservatives before they’re allowed in our food, but both of the ones listed above have controversial records and have been linked to issues like asthma (sulfur dioxide) and cancer (sodium benzoate) in certain circumstances. We always suggest steering clear of chemical preservatives whenever you can. If you’re ever in doubt about which foods are healing foods, check your meal plans at Members.FitRise.com.
Let’s dig into preservatives and their dirty little secrets. The dictionary definition of a preservative is simply “a substance used to preserve foodstuffs, wood, or other materials against decay.” Back in the early days of preservation (we’re talking ancient Egypt here), vinegar, sugar, salt, and smoke were the preservatives of choice, and they helped extend the shelf lives of meats, fruits, and vegetables so people could survive tough seasons. Eventually, though, these natural methods were overtaken by chemical ones. Now, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines a chemical preservative as pretty much anything that’s not natural but also isn’t used to kill plants and animals (an herbicide or a pesticide). Reassuring, right? Here’s a breakdown of just two common preservatives.
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