2023-09-22 20:47:42
Processed foods have invaded supermarket shelves and are regularly consumed by the French. However, they are composed of numerous ingredients intended to improve flavor, appearance or preservation, which are harmful to health.
Le sirop de glucose-fructose
Among them, we find in particular glucose-fructose syrup. Made from starch (corn or wheat), this ingredient comes from “cracking”, an industrial method used in the food industry, which consists of breaking down a raw food into several different ingredients. Used for its sweet flavor and its ability to mix well with other substances, glucose-fructose syrup may promote weight gain and the onset of diabetes. It is present in many high-calorie products, such as candies, sodas, filled biscuits, flavored syrups, sauces, but also in certain yogurts and surimis. In the ingredient list it may also be listed as “isoglucose” or “high fructose corn syrup (HFCS)”.
Hydrogenated vegetable fats
Other ingredients to avoid when shopping: hydrogenated vegetable fats. Most vegetable oils containing polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as rapeseed or soybean oils, are liquid at room temperature, which makes them difficult to use and transport. In order to make them solid, manufacturers inject them with hydrogen. But during hydrogenation, so-called “trans” fatty acids are generated. And it is the latter who are dangerous. Studies have shown that excessive consumption of trans fatty acids is associated with an increase in cardiovascular risk. According to’National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (ANSES), they increase “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and reduce “good” cholesterol (HDL). They are found for example in pastries, pizzas, or even quiches.
Nitrites
Nitrites, as well as nitrates, are additives used to preserve meat and other perishable products, and prevent the development of harmful bacteria, responsible for botulism or even salmonellosis. According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), nitrites are harmful to humans for two main reasons: they reduce the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen in the body and can contribute to the formation of compounds carcinogenic chemicals, nitrosamines. In addition to vacuum-packed cold cuts, we find this additive in prepared meals, in certain frozen pizzas, but also in industrial sandwiches, made with ham or chicken.
Monosodium glutamate
Monosodium glutamate (E621 or GMS) is a flavor enhancer widely used in the food industry. It comes in the form of a white powder and acts as a stimulant on the taste buds and the brain. It is often he who is at the origin of this uncontrollable desire to finish a bag of chips. This substance can thus create dependence, and promote obesity as well as the occurrence of hypertension. Studies have also shown that this ingredient can worsen certain serious psychological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. We therefore find it in aperitif biscuits, but also in broths, sauces, prepared meals, and vacuum-packed cold cuts. The terms “natural seasoning”, “hydrolyzed proteins” or “bacon flavor” are often associated with the presence of glutamate.
Intense sweeteners
Aspartame, acesulfame K, sucralose, saccharin, thaumatin… Obtained by chemical synthesis or extracted from plants, “intense sweeteners” are additives used by the food industry for their very high sweetening power (100 to 600 times that of powdered sugar ) without calorie intake. Although they are supposed to limit weight gain, the benefits of these substances are controversial. According to ANSES, the available studies do not prove that the consumption of products containing intense sweeteners has any benefit in controlling the weight or blood sugar levels of diabetics or the incidence of type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, the agency emphasizes that epidemiological data do not allow certain risks to be completely ruled out in the event of regular and prolonged consumption of intense sweeteners.
ARTIFICIAL COLORANTS
Artificial colors such as Tartrazine (E102), Allura Red AC (E129), or Brilliant Blue FCF (E133) are often used in the food industry to make foods more visually appealing. However, some of these dyes have been linked to adverse health effects. For example, studies have suggested a link between the consumption of certain artificial colors and hyperactivity in children. In addition, certain dyes are suspected of being carcinogenic. You can find them in products like candy, soft drinks, children’s cereals, and even some colored yogurts.
LES PHOSPHATES
Phosphates (E338 to E341, E343, E450 to E452) are food additives used as leavening agents, stabilizers or emulsifiers. They are commonly used in baked goods, soft drinks, dairy products and processed meats. Although phosphate is an essential mineral for the body, excessive consumption can be harmful. Studies have shown that high levels of phosphates in the diet may be associated with poorer kidney health and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, excessive consumption of phosphates can lead to mineral imbalances in the body, including reducing calcium absorption.
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