The main goal of adding preservatives to food is to increase profits for food manufacturing companies. Preservatives are added to processed foods to extend their shelf life, rather than improve health. By using preservatives, manufacturers increase their revenues by ensuring products have a longer expiration date, resulting in fewer returns of spoiled goods.
Preservatives work by preventing the growth of bacteria, fungi, or mold in food products. However, even small amounts of preservatives can have negative effects on health when consumed in larger amounts. Examples of preservatives like calcium propionate, nitrites and nitrates, benzoate, and bisulfites can cause issues such as headaches, migraines, blood sugar spikes, obesity, anemia and even cancer.
Despite the prevalence of preservatives in food products, there are alternatives available for many products that are preservative-free. Consumers should be aware of the potential side effects of preservatives and consider choosing preservative-free options when possible. By carefully reading ingredient lists and making informed choices about the products they purchase and consume, consumers can reduce the potential health risks associated with consuming preservatives regularly.
