5 Surprising Food Additives and Fillers and How to Avoid Them

Thanks to better nutrition labeling, increased awareness and science-based nutrition education, Americans are now consuming a healthier diet than they did in years past. Many people are paying more attention to nutrition labels and striving to make healthier food choices and are then surprised to learn that there are several hidden, unhealthy fillers and additives in many of the foods they eat. These include high-fructose corn syrup, trans fats, caramel coloring, excess sodium and polysorbate 80. If you don’t know to watch out for these, you may be unknowingly giving them to your family. Do you know what to watch out for?

High-Fructose Corn Syrup

A sweetener found in baked goods, sauces, juices, salad dressings, breads, yogurts and candies, high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a synthetic sugar made from corn starch. Researchers believe that high-fructose corn syrup may have contributed to the obesity epidemic in America.

To avoid high-fructose corn syrup, you must be nutrition label savvy. Do not purchase products that list HFCS as an ingredient. Also, whenever you’re presented with a choice, purchase fresh foods instead of boxed, canned or frozen foods.

Trans Fats

According to the Cleveland Clinic, baked goods, fried foods and sweets are loaded with trans fats. While they make your foods taste better, trans fats pose a slew of health risks, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Always try to purchase foods with zero trans fats. Keep in mind, however, that manufacturers are allowed to advertise items with 0.5 grams or less as having zero trans fat. As you can imagine, this hidden fat can really add up if you’re not careful. Some manufacturers try to hide trans fats by calling them “partially hydrogenated oils” on labels. Be on the lookout for this trick.

Caramel Coloring

Used in sodas, gravies, meats and baked goods, caramel coloring enhances the color of certain foods, making them more attractive. It has a dark side, though. Certain types of caramel coloring are considered to be a possible carcinogen. Scan food labels for an ingredient called 4-mel. Avoid any products that have this type of caramel coloring listed on the label.

Excess Sodium

Sodium, present in most processed foods, is used as a preservative to increase shelf life and prevent spoilage. What’s more, it improves the texture, color and taste of food,  which makes it a versatile and much-used additive.

While you cannot completely eliminate sodium from your diet, you should try to consume less than 2,300 mg per day, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Those with health considerations, especially heart ailments, should check with their doctors as they may need to adhere to lower numbers. To avoid going over, select foods that contain 5% or less of your daily limit of sodium.

Polysorbates

In food prep, the addition of polysorbates allows oil and water to mix, resulting in improved taste and texture. Commonly found in baked goods, chewing gum and gelatin, polysorbates (especially polysorbate 80) are known to cause irritation and other side effects in sensitive individuals. It may also be a possible carcinogen.

To avoid this additive, feed your family fresh, organic foods. Inspect food labels for any ingredients referred to as polysorbate or Tween.

At first, it may seem like a lot of work to cut out unhealthy additives and fillers from your diet. However, it will get easier as you learn what types of foods to purchase and which ones to avoid. Now you know what to look for. You got this! Your family’s health depends on it.

~ Here’s to Your Health and Wellness