The Unseen Dangers of Processed Foods

We all know that ‘fresh is best’ when it comes to food and nutrition advice.

A complementary medicine research study from George Washington University in the US has highlighted the hidden health dangers of processed foods.

In the food processing plant, the machine(s), plastics, conveyor belts and other processing equipment that food comes into contact with contains phthalates. Phthalates are used in numerous products such as soaps, cosmetics, personal care products etc.

Previous studies have shown that exposure of phthalates are linked to diabetes, hypertension, ADHD, child allergies. Consequently, countries like Japan have banned the use of PVC gloves in food handling due to adverse health effects.

Any packaging containing phthalates should be clearly labelled with a health warning. This will make consumers aware of the hidden dangers of processed foods.