Additives - useful or harmful?

Additives are substances that are not found naturally in a food but are added for various reasons. Additives can be of the following types -

1. Preservatives - These are added to prevent food from spoiling.
2. Emulsifiers - These prevent water and fats from seperating.
3. Thickners - They do just what the name suggests. Thicken your curries.
4. Vitamins & minerals - They are added to replace the nutrients that are lost in the processing of food
or to increase its nutritional value.
5. Sweetners - These can be both natural and artificial.
6. Flavorings- To enhance the taste of food.
7. Dyes - To make food more visually appealing.

The majority of food additives are safe as their use is governed by stringent regulations. What is required is a prudent and moderate approach as some additives pose a problem to people with certain medical conditions.

* People with high blood pressure should look out for processed foods containing any form of sodium.
* People with diabetes should look for lactose and other ingredients ending in '-ose'.
* People suffering from asthma should avoid foods containing sulfites as additives.
* Food preserved with nitrtates can cause headaches in some people.

Remember, preserved foods have more additives than fresh foods . Try to consume fresh meat, poultry and fish rather than smoked or preserved meats.Since highly processed foods contain the most additives they should be avoided more for their poor nutritional value rather than for their additives.