Sumber : news18.com, Swati Chaturvedi. 9 April 2025

In today’s health-conscious world, individuals tend to choose foods that are marked as “natural," “organic," or “healthy." What they do not realize is that these seemingly natural foods contain hidden synthetic preservatives.

Hidden preservatives are synthetic chemicals that are put into food to keep it fresh and prevent it from rotting. They are often referred to as “stabilizers" or “antioxidants" or are sometimes coded with certain INS numbers. These additives, while not always easy to recognize, help to extend the shelf life of everyday products, often at the cost of our long-term health. Although these are found in small quantities, if collectively consumed over a long time, they can be dangerous.

Overconsumption of such preservatives can result in gut imbalances, inflammation, and increased oxidative stress. Additionally, hyperactivity and impaired learning affect children, while adults are at an increased risk of metabolic and autoimmune disorders.

Hidden preservatives are found in everyday products such as snacks, condiments, sauces, and baked foods. For example, snacks usually have synthetic flavor enhancers, whereas sauces contain sodium benzoate as a preservative. Even ghee and flours can have preservatives such as BHA and propionates.