Common food additives can be dangerous for children, says UW study



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There is growing evidence that some chemicals in food dyes, packaging and preservatives are harmful to the growth and development of children, according to a study from the University of Washington.

The US Food and Drug Administration authorizes the use of more than 10,000 additives that can alter the taste or appearance of a food. Authorized additives may also be involved in packaging or treatment. About 1000 of these additives are considered "generally recognized as safe" and do not require FDA approval. They were acquired in the 1950s.

Now, the American Academy of Pediatrics says that reforms are urgent. Additives of greatest concern include phthalates, perchlorate, nitrates / nitrites and bisphenols, such as BPA.

"The current regulatory process does not adequately protect the health of children against these chemicals," said Dr. Sheela Sathyanarayana, pediatrician and environmental specialist at the UW School of Public Health. "Bisphenol A and phthalates are endocrine disrupting chemicals, and we have learned that early exposures can affect the health outcomes of the future."

These additives can cause many health problems such as change of puberty. , increased body fat, increased childhood obesity, affecting thyroid and brain development, and some are related to cancers of the digestive system and nervous system.

The purpose of the report was to push the FDA further. on children.

"The FDA is in a difficult position," said Sathyanarayana. "They have the power to collect data on chemicals that have been grandfathered in [for approved use] but they do not have the power to collect additional data on chemicals recognized as" sure "."

To learn more about the full list of chemicals and effects and to learn how to protect your family from increased exposure, read more on the UW Medicine website

© 2018 KING

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