Bad Food Additives

Choice Report - Kids at risk from harmful additives

Saturday, 21 February 2009 03:02

Colorings, preservatives and flavourings have been linked to allergies, asthma and even cancer.

A investigation by Choice found parents were unknowingly exposing their children to hundreds of potentially dangerous additives hidden in foods to make them taste better and last longer.

Colourings, preservatives and flavourings in cereals, biscuits, meats and sweets have been linked to allergies, asthma, behavioural problems and cancer.

Of particular concern are colourings that make children hyperactive but because they are often listed as a code number on food labels, they can be hard for consumers to identify and avoid.

The Choice report, which reviewed scientific evidence, concluded that Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) should review which additives are permitted in processed foods and consider banning the more hazardous ones.

"The main issue is colours because, if you look at them and what they are in, they are the most avoidable and some do seem to have the greatest cause for concern," Choice spokesman Christopher Zinn said.

"...Tim Tams had sunset yellow, allura red and brilliant blue colourings..."

"I was surprised that Tim Tams had sunset yellow, allura red and brilliant blue (colourings) added; you would have thought chocolate didn't need anything.''

More than 300 food additives are approved for use in Australia.

Mr Zinn said consumer feedback showed food additives were a big concern for parents because of links to hyperactivity.

"Science is still looking at establishing a firm link but I think a lot of parents believe there is a link,'' he said.

While some preservatives had a role in keeping foods safe, colourings were simply aesthetic.

The UK food regulator has advised the British Government that tartrazine (102), quinoline yellow (104), sunset yellow FCF (110), carmoisine (122), ponceau 4R (124) and allura red AC (129) should be removed from foods by 2009.

"In light of the UK food regulator's decision to push for industry action to remove certain colours by 2009, we'd like to see FSANZ review the situation in Australia,'' the Choice report said.

FSANZ spokeswoman Lydia Buchtmann said the authority was still looking at the UK recommendation but said levels of food colourings in Australia were lower.

"Our advice is to eat a balanced diet and, if you're concerned your child has an intolerance, seek medical advice,'' she said.

Choice called for one clear labelling system which should list all additives, including processing aids.

By Clair Weaver and Sharon Laba - The Sunday Telegraph - May 18, 2008 - Link