E123 - The Dangerous Colorant In Food

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Video: E123 - The Dangerous Colorant In Food

Video: E123 - The Dangerous Colorant In Food
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E123 - The Dangerous Colorant In Food
E123 - The Dangerous Colorant In Food
Anonim

It is known that the letter E and three more digits after it are denoted food additives, also called additives. Along with the good, even useful, additives such as baking soda, citric acid and others that we can see in every kitchen, there are also dangerous to health additives. They pose various risks with regular use. One of the most dangerous E's E123 - amaranth (red №2)

Main characteristics of E123 - amaranth

E123 is a substance that we classify as synthetic dyes. This additive colors the products in blue-red or brown-red, coloring can also be observed in violet-red. Amaranth is obtained from coal tar. It belongs to the substances that are especially dangerous.

Where is amaranth used in the food industry?

Amaranth colorant
Amaranth colorant

First of all amaranth begins to be used in pasta. They use it as an additive in the production of products such as cakes, biscuits, cereals. Later it is used in jellies and drinks. It is also widely used in confectionery - puddings, desserts, as well as ice cream and carbonated beverages.

Cosmetics also give scope to E123. Amaranth is part of lipsticks, blush and other makeup products.

How does amaranth work on the human body?

Food colors
Food colors

Research done in the 70s of last century shows that E123 leads to changes in the liver. It is especially dangerous during pregnancy because it damages the fetus. Studies by the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences have confirmed that E123, among other dangerous E's, can change human DNA, and any such change can provoke cancer. In the United States, amaranth is a banned substance because it is classified as a carcinogen. In EU countries, amaranth is approved for use because there is no direct evidence of its carcinogenic nature.

With regular use, reactions in the body such as rhinitis, allergies such as rashes and itching, liver and kidney problems are observed. E123 should be avoided by children as it leads to hyperactivity, also by adults with sensitivity to aspirin.

Therefore, carefully read the labels for the presence of amaranth.

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