The health risks of preservatives in food!

A very large study, involving over 112,000 participants, found that individuals consuming larger quantities of preservatives in food had a significantly increased risk of developing high blood pressure (hypertension) and cardiovascular disease. A total of 58 substances were included in the study. Preservatives are most frequently found in ultra-processed foods, such as ready-to-eat meals, packaged snacks, sweetened beverages, and mass produced baked goods. These chemicals are typically added to prevent bacterial or fungal growth, to allow food products to remain “soft” instead of hardening over time, and increase shelf life. The European Food Information Council provides a really thorough description of these chemical additives, which include substances like sorbate, benzoate, BHA, and nitrates. Yet another example of why it is so essential to consume fresh food, including veggies and fruits, nuts, seeds and legumes, on a daily basis!