F O O D A D D I T I V E S

F O O D A D D I T I V E S

COLORS (E100-E181)

Num. Name Comments

E100* Curcumin Orange-yellow color, derived from the root of the curcuma (turmeric) plant of the ginger

family, but can be artificially produced. Used in cheese, margarine, baked sweets and fish fingers.

E101* Riboflavin (vitamin B2), Riboflavin-5'-phosphate Vitamin B2 and yellow color, occurs naturally in

greenveges, eggs, milk, liver and kidney. Used in margarine and cheese.

E102 Tartrazine FD&C Yellow No.5., commonly used color, the HACSG (Hyperactive Children's Support Group declares that the substance may cause allergic reactions) recommends to avoid it. Known to provoke asthma attacks (though the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) do not recognise this) and urticaria (nettle rash) in children (FDA estimates 1:10 000); also linked to thyroid tumors, chromozomal damage, urticaria (hives) and hyperactivity. Tatrazine sensitivity is also linked to aspirin sensiticity. Used to colour drinks, sweets, jams, cereals, snack foods, canned fish, packaged soups. Typical products are soft drinks, confectionary, cordials, pickles. Banned in Norway and Austria.

E104 Quinoline yellow FD&C Yellow No.10. Used in lipsticks, hair products, colognes; also in wide range

of medications. Cause dermatitis. Banned in Australia, USA and Norway.

E107 Yellow 2G/7G Yellow color, the HACSG recommends to avoid it. People who suffer asthma may also

show an allergic reaction to it. Typical products are soft drinks. Banned in Australia, USA.

E110* Sunset yellow FCF, Orange Yellow S FD&C Yellow No.6, synthetic. HACSG recommends to avoid it. Typical products are cordials, confectionary, packet soups.Used in cereals, bakery, sweets, snack foods, ice cream, drinks and canned fish; also in many medications including Berocca, Polaramine, Ventolin syrup. Side effects are urticaria (hives), rhinitis (runny nose), nasal congestion, allergies, swelling, hyperactivity, kidney tumors, chromosomal damage, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, distaste for food; seen increased incidence of tumours in animals. Banned in Norway.

E120* Cochineal, Carminic acid, Carmines Red color, made from insects, rarely used. HACSG recommends

to avoid it.

E122 Azorubine, Carmoisine Red color, coal tar derivate. HACSG recommends to avoid it. Sensitive people, people allergic to aspirin and asthmatics may produce bad reactions to it. Typical products are confectionary, marzipan, jelly cristals. Banned in Sweden, USA, Australia and Norway

E123 Amaranth FD&C Red No.2 (Purplish-red), derived from the small herbaceous plant of the same name. Used in cake mixes, fruit-flavoured fillings, jelly cristals. Can provoke asthma, eczema and hyperactivity; it causes birth defects and foetal deaths in some animal tests, possibly also cancer. Banned in the United States in 1976, Russia, Austria and Norway; still used in Australia. Avoid it!

E124 Brilliant scarlet 4R (Ponceau 4R), Cochineal Red A FD&C Red No.4, synthetic coal tar and azo dye. Carcinogen in animals. Asthmatics and people with aspirin sensitivity may show bad reactions. The HACSG recommends to avoid it. Banned in USA and Norway.

E127 Erythrosine FD&C Red No.3. Red color used in custard mix, biscuits, glace cherries, canned cherries and strawberries (canned fruit), sweets, bakery, snack foods. HACSG recommends to avoid it. Might increase thyroid hormone levels and lead to hyperthyroidism; was shown to cause thyroid cancer in rats in a study in 1990. Can cause sensitivity to light. Banned in January 1990, but not recalled by the US FDA; banned in Norway.

E128 Red 2G Banned in Australia and many other places except UK.

E129 Allura red AC FD&C Red No.40. Synthetic orange-red color used in sweets, biscuits, cake mixes, fruit-flavoured fillings, drinks and condiments, medications and cosmetics. Introduced in the early eighties to replace amaranth which was considered not safe due to conflicting test results. Allura red has also been connected with cancer in mice. May be an allergen in allergic skin conditions. Banned in Denmark, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Austria and Norway.

E131 Patent blue V Banned in Australia, USA and Norway.

E132* Indigotine, Indigo carmine FD&C Blue No.2, synthetic coal tar derivative. Commonly added to tablets and capsules; also used in ice cream, sweets, baked goods, confectionary, biscuits. People with allergies should avoid it. May cause nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, skin rashes, breathing problems and other allergic reactions.

E133 Brilliant blue FCF FC&D Blue Dye No.1, synthetic usually occuring as aluminium lake (solution) or ammonium salt. Used in dairy products, sweets and drinks. HACSG recommends to avoid it. Banned in Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Austria and Norway.

E140 Chlorophyll Green to olive color, occurs naturally in all plants, naturally part of man's diet. Used for dyeing waxes and oils, used in medicines.

E141 Copper complexes of chorophyll and chlorophyllins Olive color, no adverse effects are known.

E142 Green S Green color, seems safe in small quantities.

E150(a) Plain caramel Dark brown color made from sucrose. HACSG recommends to avoid it. Typical products are oyster, soy, fruit and caramel sauces, beer, whiskey, biscuitts, pickles.

E150(b) Caustic sulphite caramel See E150(a)

E150(c) Ammonia caramel See E150(a)

E150(d) Sulphite ammonia caramel See E150(a)

E151 Brilliant black BN, Black PN Black color, coal tar derivative. Used in brown sauces, blackcurrant cake mixes. HACSG recommends to avoid it. Banned in Denmark, Australia, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Austria, USA and Norway.

E153* Vegetable carbon Black color, charcoal pigment. Used in jams, jelly cristals, liquorice. Only the vegetable variety permitted in Australia, banned in USA

E154 Brown FK Not permitted in Australia, banned in USA.

E155 Chocolate brown HT Brown color, coal tar and azo dye. Used in chocolate cake mixes. HACSG recommends to avoid it. Can produce bad reactions in asthmatics and people allergic to aspirin; also known to induce skin sensitivity. Banned in Denmark, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Austria, USA, Norway.

E160(a)* Carotene, alpha-, beta-, gamma- Orange-yellow colour. Human body converts it to vitamin A in the liver. Found in carrots and other yellow or orange fruits and vegetables.

E160(b)* Annato (Arnatto, Annato), bixin, norbixin Red color (peach colour), derived from a tree (Bixa orellana). Used as a body paint, fabric dye, digestive aid and expectorant. Typical products are dairy products.Used to dye cheese, butter, margarine, cereales, snack foods, soaps, textiles and varnishes. Known to cause urticaria (nettle rash). HACSG recommends to avoid it.

E160(c)* Paprika extract, capsanthin, capsorubin Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it, banned in some countries.

E160(d)* Lycopene Red coloured carotenoid, found in tomatoes and pink grapefruit. Can cause decreasing risk of cancer. Not permitted in Australia.

E160(e)* Beta-apo-8'-carotenal (C30) Orange color, no adverse effects are known.

E160(f)* Ethyl ester of beta-apo-8'-carotenic acid (C30) Orange color, no adverse effects are known.

E161(b) Xanthophylls - Lutein Yellow color, derived from plants, naturally found in green leaves, marigolds and egg yolks. Unlikely to produce adverse effects.

E161(g)* Xanthophylls - Canthaxanthin Yellow/Orange color, possibly derived from animal sources (retinol). Pegment is found in some mushroms, crustacea, fish, flamingo feathers. No adverse effects are known.

E162 Beetroot red, Betanin Purple color, derived from beets. No adverse effects are known.

E163 Anthocyanins Violet color, matter of flowers and plants. Seems safe.

E170* Calcium carbonate Mineral salt, may be derived from rock mineral or animal bones. Used in toothpastes, white paint and cleaning powders. Sometimes used to deacidify wines and firm canned fruit and vegetables. Toxic at 'high doses'.

E171 Titanium dioxide White color. Used in toothpaste and white paint, pollutes waterways. No adverse effects are known.

E172 Iron oxides and hydroxides Black, yellow, red color. Used in salmon and shrimp pastes. Toxic at 'high doses'.

E173 Aluminium Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E174 Silver Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E175 Gold Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E180 Latolrubine BK (Pigment rubine) Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E181 Tannic acid, tannins Clarifying agent in alcoholic drinks, derived from the nutgalls and twigs of oak trees, occurs naturally in tea.

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* Additives which are probably or definitely anymal (mostly pig) derivation.

PRESERVATIVES (E200-E290)

Num. Name Comments

E200 Sorbic acid Possible skin irritant.

E201 Sodium sorbate No known adverse effects.

E202 Potassium sorbate No known adverse effects.

E203 Calcium sorbate No known adverse effects.

E210 Benzoic acid HACSG recommends to avoid it. Typical products are soft drinks, juices, cordials, chilly pastes.

E211 Sodium benzoate HACSG recommends to avoid it. Typical products same as E210.

E212 Potassium benzoate People with a history of allergies may show allergic reactions. Typical products same as E210.

E213 Calcium benzoate See E212.

E214 Ethyl4-hydroxybenzoate Not permitted in Australia.

E215 Sodium salt Not permitted in Australia.

E216 Propylparaben Possible contact allergen.

E217 Propyl4-hydroxybenzoate Not permitted in Australia.

E218 Methylparaben Allergic reactions possible, mainly affecting the skin.

E219 Methyl4-hydroxybenzoate Not permitted in Australia.

E220 Sulphur dioxides Produced by combustion of sulphur or gypsum. Typical products are raw fruits and vegetables, beer, soft drinks, dried fruit, juices, cordials, wine, vinegar, potato products. HACSG recommends to avoid it. May cause allergic reactions in asthmatics, destroys vitamin B1, difficult to metabolise for those with impaired kidney function.

E221 Sodium sulphite Decontaminating agent, used in fresh orange juice. See E220.

E222 Sodium bisulphite See E220.

E223 Sodium metabisulphite Treating agent. See E220.

E224 Potassium metabisulphite See E220.

E225 Potassium sulphite See E220.

E226 Calcium sulphite Avoid it. Banned in some countries. Not permitted in Australia.

E227 Calcium hydrogen sulphite Avoid it. Banned in some countries. Not permitted in Australia.

E228 Potassium bisulphite See E220.

E230 Biphenyl, Diphenyl Can be used for agricultural purposes. Typical products are citrus fruit. Not permitted in Australia. Banned in some countries.

E231 2-Hydroxybiphenyl/Orthophenyl phenol Can be used for agricutural puposes. Typical products are pears, carrots, peaches, plums, prunes, sweet potatoe, citrus fruit, pineapples, tomatoes, peppers, cherries, nectarines. Not permitted in Australia. Banned in some countries.

E232 Sodium biphenyl-2-oxide/Sodium orthophenyl phenol See E231.

E233 Thiabendazole Can be used for agricultural purposes. Typical products are citrus fruits, apples, pears, patatoes, bananas, mushrooms, meat, milk. Not permitted in Australia. Banned in some countries.

E234 Nisin Antibiotic derived from bacteria. Found in beer, processed cheese products, tomato paste. Not known adverse effects.

E235 Natamycin Mould inhibitor derived from bacteria. Sometimes used medically to treat candidiasis. Can cause nausea, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhoea and skin irritation. Typical products are meat, cheese.

E236 Formic acid Avoid it. Banned in some countries. Not permitted in Australia.

E237 Sodium formate Avoid it. Banned in some countries. Not permitted in Australia.

E238 Calcium formate Avoid it. Banned in some countries. Not permitted in Australia.

E239 Hexamine Avoid it. Banned in some countries. Not permitted in Australia.

E249 Potassium nitrite Color fixative and curing agent for meet. Nitrites can effect the body's ability to carry oxygen, resulting in shortness of breath, dizziness and headaches. Not permitted in foods for infant and young children. Potential carcinogen.

E250 Sodium nitrite See E249. Can combine with chemicals in stomach to form nitrosamine. May provoke hyperactivity and other adverse reactions. Potentially carcinogenic. Restricted in many countries. HACSG recommends to avoid it.

E251 Sodium nitrate See E250. Also used in the manufacture of nitric acid, as a fertiliser and in fermented meat products.

E252* Potassium nitrate See E249. May be derived from waste animal or vegetable matter. Used in gunpowder explosives and fertilisers, and in the preservation of meat. May provoke hyperactivity and other adverse reactions; potencially carcinogenic. Restricted in many countries.

E260 Acetic acid Main component of vinegar, synthetically produced from wood fibres. Used in pickles, chutneys and sauces. No known adverse effects.

E261 Potassium acetate Food acid. Typical products are sauces, pickles. Should be avoided by people with impaired kidney function.

E262 Sodium diacetate, sodium acetate Food acid, acidity regulator. No known adverse effects.

E263 Calcium acetate Food acid, acidity regulator. By product in the manufacture of wood alcohol. Used to make acetic acid (vinegar) and in the production of dyers mordants.

E264 Amonium acetate Can cause nausea and vomiting.

E270* Lactic acid Food acid, acidity regulator. Produced by heating and fermenting carbohydrates in milk whey, potatoes, cornstarch or molasses. Difficult for babies to metabolise. Typical products are infant formulas, confectionary, sweets, dressings, soft drinks, sometimes beer.

E280 Propionic acid Propionates occur naturally in fermented foods, human perspiration and ruminants digestive tract. Also can be derived commercially from ethylene and carbon monoxide or propionaldehyde or natural gas or fermented wood pulp. Produced when bacteria decompose fibre. Commonly used in bread and flour products. All propionates are thought to be linked with migraine headaches.

E281 Sodium propionate May be linked to migraines. Typical productes are flour products.

E282 Calcium propionate See E281.

E283 Potassium propionate See E281.

E290 Carbon dioxide Propellant coolant, derived from lime manufacture. May increase the effect of alcohol. Typical products are wine, soft drinks, confectionary.

ACIDS, ANTIOXIDANTS, MINERAL SALTS (E296-E385)

Num. Name Comments

E296 DL-Malic acid Derived from fruit or synthetic. Infants and young children should avoid it.

E297 Fumaric acid Derived from plants of the genus Fumaria esp. F.officianalis or from the fermentation of glucose with fungi. Can be used to flavour, acidify, as an antioxidant or raising agent used in soft drinks and cake mixes. No known adverse effects.

E300 Ascorbic acid Vitamin C, flour treating agent. May be made synthetically from glucose. Naturally occurs in fruit and vegetables. Added to products as diverse as cured meat, breakfast cereals, frozen fish and wine.

E301 Sodium ascorbate Sodium salt of vitamin C.

E302 Calcium ascorbate Vitamin C. May increase the formation of calcium axalate stones.

E303 Potassium ascorbate Potassium salt of vitamin C.

E304 Ascorbyl palmitate, Ascorbyl Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Same function as vitamin C (E300).

E306, E307, E308, E309 Tocopherols, alpha-, gamma-, delta- Vitamin E. Found in many vegetable oils, including soy, wheat germ, rice germ, cottonseed, maize. Works as an antioxidant for fatty acids and tissue fats, preventing vitamin A from oxidation. Used in margarine and salad dressings.

E310 Propyl gallate Derived from nutgalls. Used to prevent rancidity in oily substances Typical products are margarine, fats, oils, lard and salad dressings, sometimes used in packaging. Gallates are not permitted in foods for infants and small chidren because of their known tendency to cause the blood disorder, methemoglobinemia. May cause gastric or skin irritation.

E311 Octyl gallate See E310.

E312 Dodecyl gallate See E310.

E317 Erythorbic acid Produced from sucrose. No known adverse effects.

E318 Sodium erythorbate Produced from E317. No known adverse effects.

E319 Tert-ButylHydroQuinone (TBHQ) Petroleum based. Typical products are fats, oils, margarine. HACSG recommends to avoid it. May cause nausea, vomiting, delirium. A dose of 5g is considered fatal.

E320 Butylated hydroxy-anisole (BHA) Petroleum derivative, retards spoilage due to oxidation.Typical products are fats, edible oils, margarine, nuts, instant potato products, chewing gum, polyethylene food wraps.. HACSG recommends to avoid it. Not permitted in foods for infants or young chidren. Can provoke an allergic reaction in some people, may trigger hyperactivity and other intolerances. Serious concerns over carcinogenicity and estrogenic effects. In large doses caused tumors in lab animals. Banned in Japan in 1958. Official committees of experts recommended that it be banned in the UK, however due to industry pressure it was not banned. McDonald's eliminated BHT from their US products by 1986. See also Butil compounds.

E321 Butylated hydroxy-toluene (BHT) Petroleum derivate. Typical products are nuts. HACSG recommend to avoid it. Not permitted in foods for infants or young chidren. See E320.

E322 Lecithins* Emulsifier derived from soy beans, egg yolks, peanuts, corn or animal resources. Nutritious and non-toxic, but overdose can upset the stomach, kill the appetite and cause profuse sweting. Used to allow combination of oils in margarine, chocolate, mayonnaise, milk powder. Must be choosen vegetable type.

E325 Sodium lactate* Derived from milk (lactic acid). May contain pork rennin or whey in process. Young children with lactose intolerance may show adverse reactions

E326* Potassium lactate See E325.

E327* Calcium lactate See E325.

E328* Ammonium lactate See E325.

E329* Magnesium lactate See E325.

E330 Citric acid Food acid, naturally derived from citrus fruit. Used in biscuits, canned fish, cheese and processed cheese products, infant formulas, cake and soup mixes, rye bread, soft drinks, fermented meat products.

E331 Sodium citrates Food acid. No known adverse effects.

E332 Potassium citrates Food acid. No known adverse effects.

E333 Calcium citrates Food acid. No known adverse effects in small quantities.

E334 Tartaric acid Food acid. No known adverse effects in small quantities.

E335 Sodium tartrates Food acid. No known adverse effects.

E336 Potassium tartrates Food acid. No known adverse effects.

E337 Sodium potassium tartrate Food acid. No known adverse effects.

E338 Phosphoric acid Food acid, derived from phosphate ore. Used in cheese products. No known adverse effects.

E339 Sodium orthophosphates Mineral salt, used as a laxative and a fixing agent in textile dyeing. High intakes may upset the calcium/phosphorus equilibrium.

E340 Potassium (ortho)phosphates See E339.

E341* Calcium (ortho)phosphates Mineral salt found in rocks and bones. Used in medicines as an antacid and polishing agent in enamels. No known adverse effects.

E343 Magnesium phosphates Essential minerals, anticaking agent found in salt substitutes.

E350 Sodium malates No known adverse effects.

E351 Potassium malate No known adverse effects.

E352 Calcium malates No known adverse effects.

E353 Metatartaric acid No known adverse effects.

E354 Calcium tartrate Seems safe.

E355 Adipic acid Food acid from the root adipose (pertaining to fat?) No known adverse effects.

E357 Potassium adipate No known adverse effects.

E363 Succinic acid Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E365 Sodium fumarate Food acid, salt of fumaric acid (derived from plants of the genus Fumaria esp. F.officianalis). No known adverse effects.

E366 Potassium fumarate No known adverse effects.

E367 Calcium fumarate No known adverse effects.

E370 1,4-Heptonolactone Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E375 Niacin Vitamin B3, naturally occurs in bean, pea and other legumes, milk, egg, meat, poultry and fish. At doses in excess of 1.000 mg per day can cause liver damage, diabetis, gastritis, eye damage, and elevated blood levels of uric acid (which can cause gout). At amounts as low as 50-100 mg may cause flushing (harmless but painful), headache and stomachache especially if taken on an empty stomach.

E380 Tri-ammonium citrate May interfere with liver and pancreas function.

E381 Ammonium ferric citrates Essential mineral, food acid derived from citric acid. Used as a dietary iron supplement in breakfast cereals and dietary formulas.

E385 Calcium disodium EDTA Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

VEGETABLE GUMS, EMULSIFIERS, STABILISERS, etc. (E400-E495)

Num. Name Comments

E400 Alginic acid Thickener and vegetable gum, derived from seaweed. Used in custard mix, cordials, flavoured milk, ice blocks, thickened cream and yoghurt. No known adverse effects in small quantities. Large quantities can inhibit the absorption of some nutrients.

E401 Sodium alginate See E400.

E402 Potassium alginate See E400.

E403 Ammonium alginate See E400.

E404 Calcium alginate See E400.

E405 Propylene glycol alginate alginate Thickener and vegetable gum, derived from petroleum. See separate entry.

E406 Agar Thickener and vegetable gum, derived from red seaweed. Sometimes used as a laxative. Found in manufactured meats and ice cream. See E400.

E407 Carrageenan A fibre extracted from seaweed. It has recently been linked with cancer because it may become contaminated when ethylene oxyde is added to an inferior product - this results in ethylene chlorohydrin forming, a highly carcinogenic compound. Linked to toxic hazards, including ulcers and cancer. The most serious concerns relate to degraded carrageenan, which is not permitted additive. However native carrageenan, which is used, may become degraded in the gut.

E410 Locust bean gum Derived from Carob or Locust bean tree Ceratonia siliqua. Used in lollies, cordials, essences, some flour products, dressings, fruit juice drinks. Frequently used as a caffeine-tree chocolate substitute. No known adverse effects in small quantities. May lower choleserol levels.

E412 Guar gum Derived from the seeds of Cyamoposis tetragonolobus of Indian origin. Fed to cattle in the USA. Can cause nausea, flatulence and cramps, may reduce the cholesterol levels. See E410.

E413 Tragacanth Resin form of the tree 'Astragalus gummifier'. Used in foods, drugs including nasal solutions, elexirs and tablets. Also used as a binder in cosmetics. Possible contact alergy.

E414 Acacia Derived from the sap of Acacia Sengal. Easily broken down by the human digestive system. Possible allergen, soothes irritations of the mucous membranes.

E415 Xanthan gum Derived from the fermentation of corn sugar with bacterium. No known adverse effects.

E416 Karaya gum Derived from the tree Sterculia urens. Often used in conjunction with Carob (E410), in ice cream, custard and sweets, as a filler for its capacity to multiply its volume by 100 times with the addition of water. Possible allergen.

E417 Tara gum Derived from the Tara bush, Caesalpinia Spinosa, indigenous to Equador and Peru, grown in Kenya.

E420 Sorbitol Artificial sweetener and humectant. Derived from glucose, either obtained from berries or synthesised. Used in lollies, dried fruits, confectionary, pastries, low calorie foods, pharmacuetical syrups and opthalmic preparations and is the seventh most widely used preservative in cosmetics. Not permitted in foods for infants and young children, can cause gastric disturbance.

E421 Mannitol Artificial sweetener and humectant. Derived from seaweed or the Manna ash tree. Typical products are low calorie foods. Possible allergen. Not permitted in infant foods due to its ability to cause diarrhea and kidney disfunction. Also may cause nausea and vomiting.

E422* Glycerol/Glycerin Humectant and sweetener, oily colourless alcohol. Derived by decomposition of natural fats with alkalis; usually as a by-product of soap making using animal fat or vegetable oil; can be obtained from petroleum products, sometimes synthesised from propylene or fermented from sugar. Used in flexible coatings on sausages and cheeses, also in crystallised and dried fruits, confectionary, low calory foods, liqueurs and vodka. "Glycerin has been shown to protect against DNA damage induced by tumor promoters, ultraviolet lights and radiation, presumably via free radical scavenging." Large quantities can cause headaches, thirst, nausea and high blood sugar levels.

E430* ? ?

E431* Polyoxyethylene ?

E432* Polysorbate 20 Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E433* Polysorbate 80 Emulsifiers, derived from animal fatty acids. Used as synthetic flavourings, surfactants, defoaming agents and dough conditioners. May increase the absorption of fat-suluble substances.

E434* Polysorbate 40 Not permitted in Australia.Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E435* Polysorbate 60 See E433.

E436* Polysorbate 65 See E433.

E440(a) Pectin Naturally occuring in the skins of apples. Used to thicken jams, jellyes and sauces. Large quantities may cause temporary flatulence or intestinal discomfort.

E440(b) Amidated pectin No known adverse effects.

E441* Gelatine Possible allergen. May contain E220. Asthmatics and people allergic to sulphites beware!!!

E442 Ammonium phosphatides No known adverse effects.

E450 Sodium and potassium polyphosphatesDophosphates High intakes may upset the calcium/phosphate equilibrium.

E460 Powdered cellulose Anti-caking agent. No known adverse effects.

E461 Methyl cellulose Can cause flatulence, distension, intestinal obstruction.

E463 Hydroxypropyl-cellulose Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E464 Hydroxypropyl-mathyl-cellulose No known adverse effects.

E465 MethylEthylCellulose No known adverse effects.

E466 Carboxymethyl-cellulose, Sodium carboxymethyl-cellulose No known adverse effects.

E469 Sodium caseinate No known adverse effects.

E470* Fatty acids salts Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E471* Mono- and Diglycerides of fatty acids No known adverse effects.

E472* Fatty acid esters of glycerol No known adverse effects.

E473* Sucrose esters of fatty acids No known adverse effects.

E474* Sucroglycerides Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E475* Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids No known adverse effects.

E476* Polyglycerol polyricinoleate No known adverse effects.

E477* Propylene glycol esters of fatty acids Derived from petroleum. No known adverse effects.

E478* ? ?

E479(b)* Thermally oxydised soya bean oil interacted with mono- and di-glicerides of fatty acids. ?

E480 Dioctil sodium sulphosuccinate Awaiting results of studies.

E481* Sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate No known adverse effects.

E482* Calcium stearoyl-2-lactylate No known adverse effects.

E483* Stearyl tartrate Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E491* Sorbitan monostearate No known adverse effects.

E492* Sorbitan tristearate May increase the absorption of fat-soluble substances.

E493* Sorbitan monolaurate Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E494* Sorbitan mono-oleate Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E495* Sorbitan monopalmitate Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

MINERAL SALTS, ANTI-CAKING AGENTS (E500-E585)

Num. Name Comments

E500 Sodium carbonates No known adverse effects in small quantities.

E501 Potassium carbonates No known adverse effects.

E503 Ammonium carbonates Irritant to mucous membranes.

E504 Magnesium carbonate Medically used as an antiacid and laxative.

E507 Hydrochloric acid Safe in small quantities.

E508 Potassium chloride Large quantities can cause gastric ulceration.

E509 Calcium chloride Derived from brine. No known adverse effects.

E510 Ammonium chloride Typical products are flour products. Should be avoided by people with impaired liver or kidney function.

E511 Magnesium chloride Magnesium is an essential mineral.

E513 Sulphuric acid Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E514 Sodium sulphate May upset the body's water balance.

E515 Potassium sulphate No known adverse effects.

E516 Calcium sulphate Derived from limestone. No known adverse effects.

E518 Magnesium sulphate A laxative.

E519 Copper sulphate Essential mineral.

E524 Sodium hydroxide Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E525 Potassium hydroxide Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E526 Calcium hydroxide No adverse effects in small quantities.

E527 Ammonium hydroxide Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E528 Magnesium hydroxide Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E529 Calcium oxide Safe in small quantities.

E530 Magnesium oxide Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E535 Sodium ferrocyanide No adverse effects are known.

E536 Potassium ferrocyanide By-product of coal gas production. Low toxicity.

E540 Dicalcium diphosphate Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E541 Sodium aluminium phosphate Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E542* Bone phosphate Derived from bones. Used in dried milk for coffeе machines. No known adverse effects.

E544 Calcium polyphosphates Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E545 Ammonium polyphosphates Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E551 Silicon dioxide No adverse effects are known in food use.

E552 Calcium silicate Derived from limestone and diatomaceous earth (the silicified skeletons of diatoms, a single celled plankton). Antiacid. No known adverse effects.

E553(a) Magnesium silicates Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E553(b) Talc Typical products are polished rice, chocolate, confectionary. Has been linked to stomach cancer.

E554 Sodium aluminium silicate Used in salt, dried milk substitutes and flours. Aluminium is known to be neurotoxic, and also to cause placental problems in pregnancy and has been linked to Alzheimer's.

E556 Calcium aluminium silicate Derived from minerals. Used in milk powders. See E554.

E558 Bentonite No known adverse effects.

E559 Aluminium silicate (Kaolin) No known adverse effects.

E570* Stearic acid Possibly of animal origin. See stearates. No known adverse effects.

E572* Magnesium stearate No known adverse effects in food use.

E575 Glucono delta-lactone No known adverse effects.

E576 Sodium gluconate Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E577 Potassium gluconate No known adverse effects.

E578 Calcium gluconate No known adverse effects.

E579 Ferrous gluconate Colour-retention agent, derived from iron and glucose. Used in olives and in iron supplements. Seems safe in small quatities.

E585 Ferrous lactate ?

FLAVOUR ENHANCERS (E620-E640)

Num. Name Comments

E620* L-Glutamic acid Flavour inhancer, salt substitute; amino acid present in many animal and vegetable proteins, derived commercially from bacteria. Might cause similar problems as MSG (E621). Young children should avoid it.

E621 Monosodium glutamate (MSG) Flavour enhancer derived from the fermentation of molasses, salt substitute. Typical products are canned vegetables, canned tuna, dressings, many frozen foods. Adverse efects appear in some asthmatic people. Can be an ellergen. Not permitted in foods for infants and young children.

E622 Monopotassium glutamate Typical products are low sodium salt substitutes. Can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps.

E623 Calcium diglutamate Salt substitute. No known adverse effects.

E624 Monoamonium L-glutamate Salt substitute. No known adverse effects.

E625 Magnesium di-L-glutamate Salt substitute. No known adverse effects.

E626 Guanylic acid May trigger gout.

E627 Disodium guanylate Isolated from sardines or yeast extract. May trigger gout. Not permitted in foods for infants and young children.

E629 Calcium guanylate May trigger gout.

E631* Disodium inosinate May be prepared from meat or sardines. May trigger gout. Not permitted in foods for infants and young children.

E633 Calcium inosinate May trigger gout.

E635* Sodium 5'ribonucleotide Typical foods include flavoured chips, instant noodles and party pies. May be associated with itchy skin rashes up to 30 hours after ingestion; rashes may vary from mild to dramatic. The reaction is dose-related and cumulative, some individuals are more sensitive than others. Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E636 Maltol Derived from bark of larch trees, pine needles, chicory wood, oils and roasted malt. It may be produced synthetically. No known adverse efects.

E637 Ethyl maltol Derived from maltol. No known adverse efects.

E640* Glycine & its sodium salt ?

MISCELLANEOUS (E900-E1520)

Num. Name Comments

E900 Dimethyl poly-siloxane Silicone based. No known adverse effects.

E901* Beeswaxes Glazing agent, used to wax fruit. See bee products. Occasionally cause allergic reactions.

E903 Carnauba wax Derived from South American palm. Used in cosmetics and inks, and to wax fruit. Occasionally causes allergic reactions.

E904* Shellac Derived from insects. Occasionally causes irritations of the skin.

E905* Paraffins, Microcrystalline wax Used on sweets, in processing yeast, vitamin tablets, dried fruit, confectionary, collagen. May inhibit absorption of fats and fat soluble vitamins; mild laxative. There may be a link to bowel cancer.

E907* Refined microcristalline wax Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E913* Lanolin Derived from sheep wool.

E920* L-Cystein and its hydrochlorides Flour treatment agent, derived from animal hair and chicken feathers. No known adverse effects.

E921* L-Cystin See E920.

E924 Potassium bromate Typical products are flour products. Large quantities can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain.

E925 Chlorine Typical products are flour products. Destroys nutrients; carcinogen. In some areas tab water is contaminated with it, to make it 'safer' to drink.

E926 Chlorine dioxide Well ..... basically see E925.

E927 Azodicarbonamide Not permitted in Australia. Avoid it. Banned in some countries.

E928 Benzol peroxide Approved by FDA for bleaching the carotenoides in refined flours. Asthmatics and people with a history of allergies BEWARE. See E210.

E931 Nitrogen Used in freezing and vacuum packing. Seems safe.

E932 Nitrous oxide Seems quite safe in small quantities.

E950 Acesulphane potassium ???

E951* Aspartame Artificial sweetener. Too many adverse effects possible to list !!! Some people are allergic to aspartame, migraine headaches are common reaction in those people.

E952 Cyclamic acid Calcium & sodium cyclamate, artificial sweetener. Known to cause migraines and other reactions. Possible carcinogen. Caused damage on rats testicles and mouse embryos in tests. Not permitted in the USA and UK, due to its links with cancer.

E954 Saccharines Calcium & sodium saccharin, artificial sweetener, derived from toluene (a known carcinogen). Banned in 1977 in the US, but reinstated subject to strict labelling starting: "Use of this product may be hazardous to your health, this product contains saccharin which has been determined to cause cancer in laboratory animals." Not too bad in small amounts, I think.

E957 Thaumatin Artificial sweetener, a protein derived from the tropical plant Thaumococcus danielli. Used to sweeten wines, bread and fruit. Put it that way .... the 'acceptable' daily intake has not been specified.

E965 Maltitol, Hydrogenated glucose syrup Humectant, starch decomposed with digestive enzymes. Used in confectionary, dried fruits, low-joule foods. Mild laxative (laxative in high concentrations).

E967 Xylitol Humectant. Found in raspberries, plums, lettuce and endives, though produced for commercial purposes from wood pulp. Used in low-joule foods and carbohydrate modified sweets, icec ream and jams. Caused kidney stones and diuretic effect on test rats - a waste of time and the lives of the rats, for the JEFCA in 1983 ruled the tests invalid in relation to humans, the symptoms caused by 'physiological disturbances' in rats! We can only imagine what conditions led to upset rats. Nobody knows.

E999 Quillaia extract Foaming agent, emulsifier, natural surfactant. Dericed from Chilean soap bark tree (Quillaia Saponaria). Used in beer and soda. Known to promote healing and reduce excessive oilness in the skin.

E1100* Amylase Derived from mold mushroom or pig pancreas.

E1200 Polydextrose Seems safe in small doses.

E1201 Polyvinyl pyrrolidone Dispersing agent, coating for tablets. Used in artificial sweeteners. No adverse effects are know.

E1202 Polyvinyl polypyrolidone Clarrifying agent for wine, colour and colloidal stabiliser. No adverse effects are know.

E1400-1450 Starches No known adverse effects.

E1505 Triethyl acetate Part becomes alcohol in the body.

E1510 Ethanol Alcohol.

E1517, E1518* Glycerol acetates Humectant and solvent, derived from glycerol. Used to coat fresh fruit in the US. Seems safe.

E1520 Propylene glycol Humectant, wetting agent, dispersing agent, petroleum based. Its glycerin like taste has made it popular for children's medications and other elixirs. Used in many topical creams and ointments, cosmetics, hair products and deodorants. Has been linked with fatal heart attacks (when given intravenously), central nervous system depression and cosmetic pharmaceutical cantact dermatitis. Toxic at 'high doses'.

UNNUMBERED

Name Comments

Albumin*

Ambergris* Derived from whale.

Arachidonic acid Derived from liver, brain, animal origin gland or oil.

Aronia Derived from Aronia arbutifolia. Used as a taste expander in jelly, pudding, powdered deserts, yoghurt, milk deserts, creams, homogenised cheeses, confectionary products, crispy cakes, fruit creams, ice-creams, and instant beverages.

Aspartic acid* Derived from aspartame (see E951).

Betaine* Derived from oil.

Biotin Colourless crystalline growth vitamin of the vitamin B complex. Found especially in yeast, liver and egg yolk. No side effects are known, it is been tested.

Caffeine An alkaloid that exists naturally in tea, kola nut and coffee. Clearly toxic in high doses. Can cause heart palpitations, high blood pressure, vomiting, convultions, headache, diarrhea, frequent urination, dehydratation, insomnia, stomach cramps, hand tremors, muscle twitches. Acts as a laxative, also saps the body's supply of calcium. Used as a mild stimulant in moderation.

Casein Phosphoprotein of milk, which has a molecular structure that is extremely similar to that of gluten. Celiac people have to avoid it.

Catalase* Derived from cattle liver.

Cholesterin*

Cinnamon Spice, made from bark. May be allergic.

Citrus Red No.2 Cancer in animals. Used for dying skins of oranges.

Civet* Derived from cat.

Clove Bud Oil Natural essential oil, steamed-distilled from clove buds (syzygium atmaticum). May be allergic.

Colin bitartrate* Animal origin tissue.

Collagen*

Enzyme*

Erythritol* Produced through a fermentation process that begins with dextrose (a simple sugar, derived from corn starch), also derived from calf stomach. Used as a sweetener for beverages and confectionary products.

Ethyl Vanilin A perfumy artificial vanilla flavouring. It is 3¹/₂ times more powerful than the real thing and cheaper too - this explains why manufacturers like to use it in soft drinks, ice-creams and baked goods. Generally recognized as safe.

Evans Blue CI Direct Blue 53 Contact dermatitis.

FD&C Green No.3 Fast Green Bladder tumors.

FD&C Red No.102 New Coccine It is an allergen. Not permitted to use for foods.

FD&C Yellow No.11 Contact dermatitis.

Fructose This carbohydrate and simple sugar (monosaccharide) occurs naturally in honey and fresh fruits. Commercial bakers use it in cakes, breads and cookies to make them brown better.

Gentian Violet CI Basic Violet No.3 Contact dermatitis.

Glucuronolactone, Glucuronic acid* A naturally occuring substance in the body, made in the liver from glucose. Helps to stimulate the metabolism and thus helps to detoxify the body. Also occurs in plants, mainly in gums. Also an important constituent of fibrous and connective tissues in all animals.

Glycerides Components of fats. Used to stabilise sausages, lard, vegetable oils, margarines and shortenings. The most widely used of them is monoglyceride citrate, although the FDA imposes strict limits.

Glycogen*

Gliadin Wheat is the first consideration. It is a major ingredient in breads, rolls, pastry, cakes, cookies and most baked products. Noodles, macaroni and spaghetti are typically made with wheat. Celiac people have to avoid it.

Guaiacol Has been used for decades in compounded products as an expectorant.

Hormone*

Hygrolyzed Vegatable Protein (HVP) Cereal gluten. Glutens are proteins found in the plant kingdom subclass of monocotyledonae (monocots). These plants are members of the grass family of wheat, oat, barley, rye and triticale and their derivatives (derivatives include: malt, grain starches, hydrolized vegetable/plant proteins, textured vegetable proteins, grain vinegars, soy sauce, grain alcohol, flavourings and the binders and fillers found in vitamins and medications). Celiac people have to avoid it. Celiac disease (also known as celiac sprue or gluten-sensitive enteropathy) is a chronic disease in which malabsorption of nutrients is caused by characteristic lesion of the small intestine mucosa. Used in smallgoods, packaged convenience foods, gravies and many canned products. It is also present in excipients in pharmaceutical preparations, particularly vitamin and mineral supplements.

Hydrolyzed Plant Protein (HPP) Same as HVP.

Keratin* Derived from nail or hair.

Lipid, Lipoid*

Lysin-L*, Lysin-DL* Same as erythritol.

Maltodextrin, Mdltrin Natural, complex carbohydrate. It is not a simple sugar (dextrose, fructose, sucrose etc). Can be derived from potato or corn starch. Used in food industry such as sweets, drink, beer, ice cream, preserved fruit, milk powder, malted mild, cake, biscuit and bread, as well as in medecine, textile printing and dyeing, paper making, casting, and petroleum drilling. Generally recognized as safe.

Menthol Crystalline alcohol that occurs especially in mint oils, has the sharp fragrance and cooling properties of peppermint. May be allergic.

Metionine* Derived from protein.

Neutral Red Contact dermatitis.

Nucleyc acid Derived from cells.

Oleamine, Oleic acid*

Rennet* Cheese yeast, derived from calf stomach.

Oxysterin*

Palmitic acid*

Panthenol*

Pepsin*

Phenylalanine, Phenylanine Essential amino acid. The body uses it to produce some hormones (epinephrine, norepinephrine, thyroxine, cholecystokinin) and melanin (a brown skin pigment). Cholecystokinin causes suppression of the appetite (this may be used to sports people who need to reduce body fat or maintain a certain weight). Pain relieving effects of phenylanine may be of use to athletic people who experience pain due to muscle, ligament, joint and tendon injury, inflamation and spasms which commonly result from intense exercise.

Phenylephrine Decongestant which helps relieve nasal congestion. Used in pharmacy. Side effects are nausea, stomach upset, loss of appetite, nervousness, restlessness, dizziness, headache, chest pain, rapid heart rate, anxiety, fear, difficult or painful urination and sleeplessness.

Phospholipide* Cheese yeast.

Polypeptides*

PolyVinylPolyPyrrolidone, PVPP White powder added to beer for removing phenolic compounds, then beer is clear and has long shelf life.

Progesterone*

Salicylate Salt of salicylic acid. Used in candies, pies, soft drinks and sweet rolls.

Quinine dihydrochloride, Quinine sulfate Toxic alkaloid, extracted from the bark of chinchona tree. Used as flavourings in carbonated beverages (primarily bitter lemon and tonic water), bitters and as a treatment for malaria. Side effects are headache, nausea, ringing in the ears and blurred vision. FDA strictly limits the amounts of it that can be used.

Taurine Nonessential amino acid. Produced by synthesis of the amino acids methionine and cysteine in the liver, vitamin B6 helps the process. Diabetic and hypoglycaemic patients should use taurine under medical supervision as it may have an effect on insulin activity. Excessive consumption of taurine may rezult in diarrhea and peptic ulcer formation.

Thiamine A source of vitamin B1. Functions as a coenzyme in energy metabolism. Keeps appetite, digestive tract and nervous system healthy. Adverse effects in high doses are headache, irritability, rapid pulse, trembling and weakness.

Thimerosal Very effective preservative that contains mercury and has been used in some vaccines and other products. FDA estimates that it is used in more than 30 licensed vaccines and biologics. Mercury is excreted from the body over time. Nervous system is very sensitive to all forms of mercury, methylmercury and metal vapors are more harmful than other forms. Exposure to high levels of metallic, inorganic or organic mercury can permanently damage the brain, kidneys and developing fetus; efects on brain functioning may result in irritability, shyness, tremors, changes in vision or hearing and memory problems.

Torula High-protein, derived from wood sugars as a by-product of the pulping process in paper making. Type S is used in baby food and cereals, type F is used in feed supplements for cattle, fish and chickens. Allergen for hay fever and asthma.

Zinc Essential element for humans. Naturally occurs in meat (especially liver), fish (especially shellfish), lentils, green leafy vegetables, whole cereals (including wheat germ), brewer's yeast, cheese, milk, nuts, sunflower and sesame seeds. Toxic doses of zink cause vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, stomach irritation, depressed immune function and anemia. Excessive zink doses may decrease the level of HDL ("good") cholesterol and increase the risk for heart disease.

FOOD ADDITIVES TO AVOID

Food additives are chemicals used at home or by the food industry to improve the taste, color, texture, and longevity of food. Food preservation with salt, smoke, spices, and sugars is the origin of food additive technology. Commercial food additives are regulated in the USA by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Food additives tend to receive the most detailed scientific attention because of regulatory scrutiny. A brief discussion of the more popular additives will serve to illustrate potential health problems.

Name Comments

Acesulfame K Known commercially as Sunette or Sweet One, acesulfame is a sugar substitute sold in packet or tablet form, in chewing gum, dry mixes for beverages, instant coffee and tea, gelatin deserts, puddings and non-dairy creamers. Tests show that the additive causes cancer in animals, which means it may increase cancer in humans. Avoid acesulfame K and products containing it.

Artificial colorings The great bulk of artificial colorings used in food are synthetic dyes. For decades synthetic food dyes have been suspected of being toxic or carcinogenic and many have been banned. Whenever possible, choose foods without dyes. They're mostly used in foods of questionable nutrition worth anyway. Natural ingredients should provide all color your food needs. Food colors and preservatives have been suspected of producing allegic reactions, and behavioral disturbance. Their exclusion was part of Dr.Feingold's program for treating hyperactive chidren. Food colors are used liberally in all commercial food manufacture and have been popular in home use. The yellow dye, tatrazinea and the preservative, benzoate can cause hives (urticaria). In the study of hyperactive children by Egger et al, tatrazine and benzoate were the most common substances to provoke abnormal behavior in children, although they were never the only cause of behavioral problems. Tatrazine is a yellow food color, common in a wide variety of manufactured food products. Tatrazine produces symptoms typically within 90 minutes of eating, a variety of symptoms, including asthma, hives, generalized swellin, headache, and behavior change, usually hyperactivity. Colors derived from natural plant and animal sources are usually exempt from FDA control in the US and are generally recognized as safe (GRAS). Beet pigment, beta-corotene, grape skin extract, paprika, saffron, turmeric, and vegetable juice are example of GRAS colors. While these substances are not known to be toxic or carcinogenic, there is no assurance that they are not allergenic or otherwise troublesome to some people. Certified colors are approved by the Food Drug and Cosmetic act and bear the certification name FD&C Red No.2 and so on. Tatrazine is FD&C Yellow No.15. Of the nine colors currently certified, seven may be used in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice.

Aspartame This sugar substitute, sold commercially as Equal and NutraSweet, was hailed as the savior for dieters who for decades had put up with saccharine's unpleasant after taste. Phenylketonuria (PKU) is the inability to metabolize phenylalanine, one of the two amino acids in aspartame. Toxic levels of this substance in the blood can result in mental retardation. Aspartame might cause altered brain function and behavior changes in consumers. And many people have reported dizziness, headaches, epileptic-like seizures, and menstrual problems after ingesting aspartame. Avoid aspartame if you are pregnant, suffer from PKU, or think that you experience side affects from using it. If you consume more than a couple of servings a day consider cutting back. And, to be on the the safe side, don't give aspartame to infants. Aspartame contains two aminoacids: phenylalanine and aspartic acid. Large amounts of aspartame may be a problem for people with known phenylalanine intolerance. Excess phenylanine could affect brain function adversely by increasing excitability of brain cells and, in the worse case, promoting seizures. There are reports of allergic reactions to aspartame.

BHA & BHT These two closely related chemicals are added to oil-containing foods to prevent oxidation and retard rancidity. The international Agency for Research on Cancer, part of the World Health Organization, consider BHA to be possibly carcinogenic to humans, and the State of California has listed it as a carcinogen. Some studies show the same cancer causing possibilities for BHT. BHT and BHA are totally unnecessary. To avoid them read the label. Because of the possibility that BHT and BHA might cause cancer, both should be phased out of our food supply. To play it safe, phase them out of your diet.

Caffeine Caffeine is found naturally in tea, coffee and cocoa. It is also added to many soft drinks. It is one of the few drugs - a stimulant - added to foods. Caffeine promotes stomach-acid secretion (possibly increasing the symptoms of peptic ulcers), temporarily raises blood pressure, and dilates some blood vessels while constricting others. Excessive caffeine intake results in "caffeinism", with symptoms ranging from nervousness to insomnia. These problems also affect children who drink between 2 to 7 cans of soda a day. Caffeine may also interfere with reproduction and affect developping fetuses. Experiments on lab animals link caffeine to birth defects such as cleft palates, missing fingers and toes, and skull malformations. Caffeine is mildly addictive, which is why some people experience headaches when they stop drinking it. While small amounts of caffeine don't pose problem for everyone. Avoid it if you are trying to become or are pregnant. And try to keep caffeine out of you child's diet.

MonoSodium Glutamate (MSG) Early in this century a Japanese chemist identified MSG as the substance in certain seasonings that added to the flavour of protein-containing foods. Unfortunately, too much MSG can lead to headaches, tightness in the chest, and a burning sensation in the forearms and the back of the neck. If you think you are sensitive to MSG, look at ingredient listings. Also, avoid hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP), which may contain MSG. Monosodium glutamate, well known as MSG, is perhaps the most vilified of additives. MSG is blamed for almost everything that goes wrong in a Chinese restaurant, and many people scan food product labels, rejecting any displaying MSG. Glutamate is amino acid normally continuously present in all our cells and always available in the blood. Sudden absorption of large amount of MSG will act in a negative fashion. A rapid rise in blood glutamate may activate receptors which ring allarms, causing the headache and shooting pains that are associated with MSG. A variety of other symptoms are commenly reported, including flushing, numbness and tingling, chest pains, fast heart action, abdominal pains and behavior changes that include irritability, hyperactivity, and angry outbursts. In pure form, we would not expect MSG to trigger allergic effects. MSG products may contain allergenic contaminants from the vegetable source including corn, beets, and wheat. Often MSG is mixed with an enzyme in commercial food enhancers such as "Accent". The most common enzyme is Papain, derived from Papaya. Papain is a protein allergen. It is possible that MSG is often blamed for the allergenicity of papin. Papain may be injected into ruptured intervertebral discs as an alternative to back surgery. The injection is potentially dangerous if the patient has been previously sensitized by ingestion.

Nitrite and Nitrate Sodium nitrite and sodium nitrate are two closely related chemicals used for centuries to preserve meat. While nitrate itself is harmless, it is readily converted to nitrite. When nitrite combines with compounds called secondary amines, it forms nitrosamines, extremely powerful cancer-causing chemicals. The chemical reaction occurs most readily at the high temperatures of frying. Nitrite has long been suspected a cause of stomach cancer. Look for nitrite-free processed meats - some of which are frozen, refrigeration reduces the need for nitrites - at some health food and grocery stores. But regardless of the presence of nitrite or nitrosamines, the high-fat, high-sodium content of most processed meats should be enough to discourage you from choosing them. And don't cook with bacon drippings. Several chemicals, used as food additives, are also found in many foods. Nitrates and nitrites are ubiquitous in plants. They form part of the essential chemistry of soils and plants. As every gardener knows, nitrogen is essential for plant growth; nitrogen fertilizers, containing nitrates, are the most abundant agricultural chemicals. Beets, radishes, spinach, and lettuce contain the highest levels of nitrates. Daily consumption is estimated to be in the range of 100 mg/day. Nitrites are less common in the food supply, but are produced in the mouth and intestine by bacterial action on protein and nitrates. Daily intake is in the range of 2-3 mg/day. Nitrites, usually as sodium salts, have been used widely as preservatives, especially in bacon and other processed meats. Saltpeter is the best known nitrite with its undeserved reputation as sex-drive inhibitor. Nitrites also occur naturally in foods. The chief concern is the ability of the nitrites to combine with amino acids in GIT (Gastro-Intestinal Tract) to form nitrosamines, potentially carcinogenic molecules. Vitamin C inhibits nitrosamine formation and is thought to protect against GIT cancer. Vitamin C is an antioxidant preservative, and can replace less desirable preservatives in some foods. Tobacco smoke is the major source of human exposure to nitrosamines.

Olestra Olestra, the fake fat recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is both dangerous and unnecessary. Olestra was approved over the objection of dozens of leading scientists. The additive may be fat-free but it has a fatal side-effect: it attaches to valuable nutrients and flushes them out of the body. Some of these nutrients - called carotenoids - appear to protect us from such deseases as lung cancer, prostate cancer, heart disease, and macular degeneration. The Harvard School of Public Health states that "the long-term consumption of olestra snack foods might therefore result in several thousand unnecessary deaths each year from lung and prostate cancers and heart disease, and hundred of additional cases of blidness in the elderly due to macular degeneration. Besides contributing to disease, olestra causes diarrhea and other serious gastrointestinal problems, even at low doses". FDA certified olestra despite the fact that there are safe low-fat snacks already on the market. There is no evidence to show that olestra will have any significant effect on reducing obesity in America. Despite being approved as safe by the FDA, all snacks containing olestra must carry a warning label (similar to one found on cigarettes) that states: "This product contains olestra. Olestra may cause abdominal cramping and loose stools. Olestra inhibits the absorption of some vitamins and other nutrients. Vitamins A, D, E and K have been added." CSPI advises consumers to avoid all olestra foods, and urges major food manufacturers not to make olestra-containing products. Pringle's Potato Chips, made by Procter & Gamble, will probably be the first snack food made with olestra.

Saccharin Several studies in the 70's linked saccharin with cancer in laboratory animals. Avoid it. Sweetener packets and cans of saccharin-containing diet bear warning labels: "Use of this product may be hazardous to your health. This product contains saccharin, which has been determined to cause cancer in laboratory animals." Why not heed the warning?

Salicylates Salicylates are common in vegetables and fruit. Medicinal salicylates came from plant sources such as willow-bark methylsalicylate. As oil of wintergreen, methylsalicylate has been rubbed on many cold-stricken chests and inhaled by coughing children for many years. Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), or aspirin, is one of the most popular and useful drugs of all times. ASA is an effective drug, with diverse benefits, but it routinely causes GIT irritation and bleeding. It is a good allergen and causes many rashes and hives. Salicylates occasionally trigger asthma. Dr.Feingold postulated that salicylates and food dyes produced hyperactivity in children, popularizing low salicylate diets. Feingold recommended avoiding foods that contained natural salicylates or chemically similar substances. His lists excluded such foods as peaches and cucumber, for example, which are low in our list of symptom-producing foods.

Sulfites Sulfites are a class of chemicals that can keep cut fruit and vegetables looking fresh. They also prevent discoloration in apricots, raisins, and other dried fruits; control "black spot" in freshly caught shrimp; and prevent discoloration, bacterial growth, and fermantation in wine. Until the early 80's they were considered safe, but CSPI found six scientific studies proving that sulfites could provoke sometimes severe allergic reactions. CSPI and FDA identified at least a dozen fatalities linked to sulfites. All of the deaths occurred among asthmatics. In 1985 Congress finally forced FDA to ban sulfites from most fruits and vegetables. Especially if you have asthma, be sure to consider whether your attacks might be related to sulfites. The ban does not cover fresh-cut potatoes, dried fruits, and wine. Sulfites (sulphites) are used as a bleaching, antioxidant, and preserving additives in food. Sulfites have been implicated as allergens. A typical sulfite reaction involves flushing, dizziness, shortness of breath or wheezing. Asthmatic attacks can be provoked by sulfites and a few deaths have been attributted to them. Sulfite sprays have been widely used on fresh products in stores and restaurants to prevent browning with air exposure. French-fried potatoes are also treated this way. As preservatives, sulfites were found in processed food, alcoholic beverages (wines and beer), and drugs. Even aerosols used to treat asthmatics contained sulfites as preservatives! The increased notoriety of sulfites in 1985 led new regulations limiting their use. The FDA has banned the use of six sulfite preservatives in fresh fruit and vegetables. The ban still permits manufacturers of processed foods, dried fruits, wines and beer to use sulfites, although, if these manufacturers are prudent, they will voluntarily restrain or curtail sulfite use.