Thanks for referencing my article on the gut mucosal barrier!
I'm going to add to your list (and update my own article today :-) with a 2023 study that showed that microplastics - the microscopic bits of plastic that are in so many foods and water - also decrease the gut mucosal barrier.
Well, I think many are unavoidable if we choose to eat any package food product. Here is what Chat GPT had to say , when I asked. I never have heard of several of these additives on this list.
1. Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)
What it is: CMC is a cellulose derivative, typically derived from plant fibers like wood or cotton, chemically modified by adding carboxymethyl groups.
Uses: It is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: Generally considered safe in moderate amounts, though excessive intake may cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Some studies have raised concerns about its potential to irritate the digestive tract.
2. Polysorbate 80
What it is: A synthetic emulsifier made by reacting sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) with fatty acids, usually from palm or coconut oil.
Uses: Commonly used in ice cream, salad dressings, and other processed foods to keep ingredients from separating.
Health concerns: Some studies suggest that polysorbate 80 may affect the gut microbiome, leading to potential inflammation. It has also been linked to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals and potential effects on the immune system.
3. Carrageenan
What it is: A seaweed-derived ingredient, typically extracted from red algae, used to thicken or gel foods.
Uses: It is commonly found in dairy products, plant-based milk, and processed meats.
Health concerns: Carrageenan has been associated with digestive inflammation and gastrointestinal discomfort. Some studies suggest it might contribute to the development of colon cancer, though the evidence is not definitive. It is considered safe by most regulatory bodies but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
4. Propylene Glycol
What it is: A synthetic liquid made from petroleum or natural gas, sometimes derived from plant-based glycerin.
Uses: Used as a humectant (moisture-retaining agent), emulsifier, and preservative in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: While considered safe in small quantities by the FDA, excessive consumption can lead to toxicity, particularly in infants, and may cause skin or eye irritation in some individuals.
5. Locust Bean Gum
What it is: A natural gum derived from the seeds of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua).
Uses: Used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and gelling agent in foods like dairy products, sauces, and salad dressings.
Health concerns: Generally considered safe, though some individuals may experience digestive discomfort if consumed in large amounts. It is also a form of soluble fiber, which can cause bloating in sensitive people.
6. Guar Gum
What it is: A natural gum made from the seeds of the guar plant, commonly used as a thickening agent.
Uses: Found in dairy products, sauces, soups, and gluten-free foods to improve texture and consistency.
Health concerns: It is a type of fiber, and while it is generally safe, excessive consumption may cause digestive issues, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea, especially for people with sensitive digestive systems.
7. Xanthan Gum
What it is: A polysaccharide (complex sugar) produced by fermenting sugars with a bacteria called Xanthomonas campestris.
Uses: Used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in gluten-free and low-fat foods, sauces, and dressings.
Health concerns: Typically safe in moderation, but high intake can lead to digestive discomfort, such as gas and bloating. Some people may also have an allergic reaction to xanthan gum if they are sensitive to certain bacterial components.
8. Sorbitan Monostearate
What it is: A synthetic compound made by esterifying sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) with stearic acid (a fatty acid typically derived from animal or plant sources).
Uses: Used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in processed foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: Generally considered safe, though in large quantities, sorbitan monostearate can cause gastrointestinal upset or laxative effects. It may also cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
9. Glyceryl Stearate
What it is: A compound formed by the esterification of glycerin (a sugar alcohol) with stearic acid.
Uses: Used as an emulsifier in food products like margarine, and in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: Generally regarded as safe, but in large quantities, it may cause digestive issues. There are no significant concerns with typical dietary intake.
10. Maltodextrin
What it is: A carbohydrate derived from starch (often corn, rice, or potato) through partial hydrolysis.
Uses: Commonly used as a sweetener, thickener, or filler in processed foods, especially in sugar-free or low-calorie foods.
Health concerns: Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index and can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can be harmful to individuals with diabetes. It can also contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
11. Cellulose Gum
What it is: A derivative of cellulose (plant fiber) that has been chemically altered to create a water-soluble form.
Uses: Used as a thickener and stabilizer in various foods and beverages, including ice cream and salad dressings.
Health concerns: Cellulose gum is generally considered safe and non-toxic. However, excessive intake may cause bloating or other gastrointestinal issues due to its fiber content.
12. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
What it is: A synthetic polymer made from petroleum-based ethylene glycol and other chemicals.
Uses: Used as an emulsifier, solvent, and stabilizer in food and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: PEG is considered safe in small amounts, though some concerns have been raised about its potential to cause irritation or allergic reactions in certain individuals. Long-term ingestion of large amounts could pose risks, particularly related to kidney and liver function.
13. Sorbitan
What it is: Sorbitan is derived from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and used in various esterified forms (like sorbitan monooleate).
Uses: It is primarily used as an emulsifier in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: Sorbitan itself is considered safe, but the sorbitol component can cause gastrointestinal distress (gas, bloating, diarrhea) when consumed in excess, especially for individuals sensitive to sugar alcohols.
14. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
What it is: A surfactant derived from coconut or palm oil, commonly used in cleaning and personal care products.
Uses: Found in shampoos, soaps, toothpaste, and some processed foods as a foaming agent or emulsifier.
Health concerns: SLS can cause skin irritation and dryness in sensitive individuals, and when ingested in large quantities, it may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Long-term exposure to high concentrations could potentially affect the mucous membranes.
Conclusion:
While most of these ingredients are considered safe for consumption in moderate amounts by regulatory agencies (e.g., the FDA), excessive intake or sensitivity to specific additives can lead to gastrointestinal issues, allergic reactions, or other health concerns. Many of these additives are used to enhance the texture, shelf-life, and appearance of processed foods but should be consumed with caution, especially by people with underlying health conditions like digestive disorders or allergies.
What came up in the response was "Generally recognized as safe", otherwise known as GRAS.
Here is another AI, GROK, when asked about what GRAS really means.
Ah, GRAS. It's the culinary equivalent of saying, "Eh, it's probably fine, just don't ask too many questions." Officially, GRAS stands for "Generally Recognized As Safe," which means some food additives have been given a sort of hall pass by the FDA. They're supposed to be safe enough for use in food without the need for a full premarket review, based on either scientific procedures or a long history of use before 1958. But let's be honest, it's like saying, "We've all been eating this stuff for ages, and no one's turned into a giant tomato yet, so it must be okay!"
However, the term has become a bit of a punchline in some circles, because "Generally Recognized As Safe" doesn't always mean "Definitely Safe For Everyone." It's more like a nod among experts saying, "Yeah, this should be fine, unless we find out otherwise in a few decades." So, proceed with caution, or at least, with a good sense of humor about what you're putting in your mouth.
Thanks for referencing my article on the gut mucosal barrier!
I'm going to add to your list (and update my own article today :-) with a 2023 study that showed that microplastics - the microscopic bits of plastic that are in so many foods and water - also decrease the gut mucosal barrier.
https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6304/11/2/127
I try to avoid chemicals added to food. I started to make my own pickles and hot sauce. Next I will be fermenting vegetables that I like.
Hopefully, this will increase my gut health.
Well, I think many are unavoidable if we choose to eat any package food product. Here is what Chat GPT had to say , when I asked. I never have heard of several of these additives on this list.
1. Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)
What it is: CMC is a cellulose derivative, typically derived from plant fibers like wood or cotton, chemically modified by adding carboxymethyl groups.
Uses: It is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: Generally considered safe in moderate amounts, though excessive intake may cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Some studies have raised concerns about its potential to irritate the digestive tract.
2. Polysorbate 80
What it is: A synthetic emulsifier made by reacting sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) with fatty acids, usually from palm or coconut oil.
Uses: Commonly used in ice cream, salad dressings, and other processed foods to keep ingredients from separating.
Health concerns: Some studies suggest that polysorbate 80 may affect the gut microbiome, leading to potential inflammation. It has also been linked to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals and potential effects on the immune system.
3. Carrageenan
What it is: A seaweed-derived ingredient, typically extracted from red algae, used to thicken or gel foods.
Uses: It is commonly found in dairy products, plant-based milk, and processed meats.
Health concerns: Carrageenan has been associated with digestive inflammation and gastrointestinal discomfort. Some studies suggest it might contribute to the development of colon cancer, though the evidence is not definitive. It is considered safe by most regulatory bodies but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
4. Propylene Glycol
What it is: A synthetic liquid made from petroleum or natural gas, sometimes derived from plant-based glycerin.
Uses: Used as a humectant (moisture-retaining agent), emulsifier, and preservative in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: While considered safe in small quantities by the FDA, excessive consumption can lead to toxicity, particularly in infants, and may cause skin or eye irritation in some individuals.
5. Locust Bean Gum
What it is: A natural gum derived from the seeds of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua).
Uses: Used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and gelling agent in foods like dairy products, sauces, and salad dressings.
Health concerns: Generally considered safe, though some individuals may experience digestive discomfort if consumed in large amounts. It is also a form of soluble fiber, which can cause bloating in sensitive people.
6. Guar Gum
What it is: A natural gum made from the seeds of the guar plant, commonly used as a thickening agent.
Uses: Found in dairy products, sauces, soups, and gluten-free foods to improve texture and consistency.
Health concerns: It is a type of fiber, and while it is generally safe, excessive consumption may cause digestive issues, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea, especially for people with sensitive digestive systems.
7. Xanthan Gum
What it is: A polysaccharide (complex sugar) produced by fermenting sugars with a bacteria called Xanthomonas campestris.
Uses: Used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in gluten-free and low-fat foods, sauces, and dressings.
Health concerns: Typically safe in moderation, but high intake can lead to digestive discomfort, such as gas and bloating. Some people may also have an allergic reaction to xanthan gum if they are sensitive to certain bacterial components.
8. Sorbitan Monostearate
What it is: A synthetic compound made by esterifying sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) with stearic acid (a fatty acid typically derived from animal or plant sources).
Uses: Used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in processed foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: Generally considered safe, though in large quantities, sorbitan monostearate can cause gastrointestinal upset or laxative effects. It may also cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
9. Glyceryl Stearate
What it is: A compound formed by the esterification of glycerin (a sugar alcohol) with stearic acid.
Uses: Used as an emulsifier in food products like margarine, and in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: Generally regarded as safe, but in large quantities, it may cause digestive issues. There are no significant concerns with typical dietary intake.
10. Maltodextrin
What it is: A carbohydrate derived from starch (often corn, rice, or potato) through partial hydrolysis.
Uses: Commonly used as a sweetener, thickener, or filler in processed foods, especially in sugar-free or low-calorie foods.
Health concerns: Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index and can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can be harmful to individuals with diabetes. It can also contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
11. Cellulose Gum
What it is: A derivative of cellulose (plant fiber) that has been chemically altered to create a water-soluble form.
Uses: Used as a thickener and stabilizer in various foods and beverages, including ice cream and salad dressings.
Health concerns: Cellulose gum is generally considered safe and non-toxic. However, excessive intake may cause bloating or other gastrointestinal issues due to its fiber content.
12. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
What it is: A synthetic polymer made from petroleum-based ethylene glycol and other chemicals.
Uses: Used as an emulsifier, solvent, and stabilizer in food and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: PEG is considered safe in small amounts, though some concerns have been raised about its potential to cause irritation or allergic reactions in certain individuals. Long-term ingestion of large amounts could pose risks, particularly related to kidney and liver function.
13. Sorbitan
What it is: Sorbitan is derived from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and used in various esterified forms (like sorbitan monooleate).
Uses: It is primarily used as an emulsifier in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Health concerns: Sorbitan itself is considered safe, but the sorbitol component can cause gastrointestinal distress (gas, bloating, diarrhea) when consumed in excess, especially for individuals sensitive to sugar alcohols.
14. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
What it is: A surfactant derived from coconut or palm oil, commonly used in cleaning and personal care products.
Uses: Found in shampoos, soaps, toothpaste, and some processed foods as a foaming agent or emulsifier.
Health concerns: SLS can cause skin irritation and dryness in sensitive individuals, and when ingested in large quantities, it may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Long-term exposure to high concentrations could potentially affect the mucous membranes.
Conclusion:
While most of these ingredients are considered safe for consumption in moderate amounts by regulatory agencies (e.g., the FDA), excessive intake or sensitivity to specific additives can lead to gastrointestinal issues, allergic reactions, or other health concerns. Many of these additives are used to enhance the texture, shelf-life, and appearance of processed foods but should be consumed with caution, especially by people with underlying health conditions like digestive disorders or allergies.
Thanks Adam or should I say Chat-GPT.
What came up in the response was "Generally recognized as safe", otherwise known as GRAS.
Here is another AI, GROK, when asked about what GRAS really means.
Ah, GRAS. It's the culinary equivalent of saying, "Eh, it's probably fine, just don't ask too many questions." Officially, GRAS stands for "Generally Recognized As Safe," which means some food additives have been given a sort of hall pass by the FDA. They're supposed to be safe enough for use in food without the need for a full premarket review, based on either scientific procedures or a long history of use before 1958. But let's be honest, it's like saying, "We've all been eating this stuff for ages, and no one's turned into a giant tomato yet, so it must be okay!"
However, the term has become a bit of a punchline in some circles, because "Generally Recognized As Safe" doesn't always mean "Definitely Safe For Everyone." It's more like a nod among experts saying, "Yeah, this should be fine, unless we find out otherwise in a few decades." So, proceed with caution, or at least, with a good sense of humor about what you're putting in your mouth.
I did turn into a giant....tomato!
Wow. That’s all I can think to say…….