By Admin 
Nowadays many of us are increasingly moving towards packaged and ready-to-eat products. They are convenient to eat and easily available, but recent research has shown that some common preservatives used in some food items can be harmful to our health. Two large studies, conducted in France and published in the British Medical Journal and Nature Communications, analyzed the diet and health data of more than 1 lakh adults between 2009 and 2023. This study was conducted under the NutriNet-Sant group and its objective was to understand whether long-term consumption of these preservatives increases the risk of serious diseases like cancer and type 2 diabetes.
What are ultra-processed foods?
Ultra-processed foods are those that are prepared in factories. These usually contain too much sugar, salt and unhealthy fats, while having very little essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. These products also often contain additives such as preservatives, emulsifiers and stabilizers. These are such chemicals which are rarely used in normal household food.
What did the research find?
The research examined 17 common preservatives, which included substances such as potassium sorbate, sodium nitrite and acetic acid. All these are commonly found in packaged foods sold in India. Excessive consumption of potassium sorbate can increase the risk of overall cancer by 14 percent and the risk of breast cancer by 26 percent. Sulfites increased overall cancer risk by 12 percent. Sodium nitrite was found to increase the risk of prostate cancer by 32 percent. Potassium nitrate and acetic acid intake linked to overall cancer and breast cancer.
However, researchers clarified that it is too early to say that consumption of these preservatives is a direct cause of cancer. This requires more in-depth study. But it is definitely believed that these chemicals can increase inflammation and oxidative stress in the body and can affect the intestinal microbiota, which can increase the risk of cancer and other diseases.
Indian Preservatives
The packaged food market is growing rapidly in India. Experts say these findings further reinforce that the modern diet pattern, which is based mostly on ultra-processed food, can be harmful to health. Experts say that based on these results, it is necessary to conduct immediate regulatory review and increase public awareness. He says that ultra-processed foods have already been found to be linked to about 32 health problems including metabolic and mental disorders, untimely death.
How do preservatives cause harm?
Preservatives are added to food items mainly to prevent them from spoiling and to increase their shelf life. But experts say they can also affect the natural structure of food. When this structure is disrupted, even healthy nutrients can have harmful effects. Many preservatives can cause multiple levels of inflammation, oxidative stress and disturbance in the gut microbiota in the body over a long period of time.
What can be done?
Researchers suggest that regulators should strictly monitor and make rules on the use of preservatives. Till then, consumers are advised to eat as much fresh and less processed food as possible. Policy action regarding ultra-processed food has started in many countries of the world. TV and online advertising has been banned in Britain for the safety of children. The US updated its diet guidelines and advised people to prioritize fresh and less processed foods over packaged products.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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