Nowadays, processed foods are widely available though we are not promoting these type of foods as they can lead to health risks in the later stages of life. But have you ever wondered why these foods lasted for years? To find out the answer, read this article.
Potassium benzoate is a white, odorless powder that’s obtained by combining benzoic acid and potassium salt beneath heat. Benzoic acid could be a compound actually found in plants, animals, and fermented products. Initially determined from the benzoin resin of certain tree species, it’s presently for the most part industrially produced. Potassium salts are typically extracted from salt beds or certain minerals. Potassium benzoate is utilized as an additive, because it avoids the development of microbes, yeast, and especially forms. As such, it’s regularly included in nourishment, excellence, and skin care items to expand their shelf life.
Potassium benzoate can be found in a variety of bundled in foods, including: beverages (pop, flavored drinks, and certain fruit and vegetable juices); sweets (candy, chocolate, and pastries); condiments (processed sauces and salad dressings, furthermore pickles and olives); spreads (certain margarines, jams, and jellies); processed meats and fish (salted or dried fish and seafood, as well as certain cold cuts). This additive is additionally included in some vitamin and mineral supplements. Also, it’s utilized as a sodium benzoate alternative in foods that require lower sodium content. You can tell whether nourishments contain potassium benzoate by looking at the ingredient list. It may moreover be called E212, which is its European nourishment added substance number. The maximum levels allowed of potassium benzoate vary based on the type of processed food. For example, flavored drinks may contain up to 36 mg per container (240 mL), whereas natural product jams may only harbor up to 7.5 mg per tablespoon (15 grams). For reference, a 155-pound (70-kg) grown-up would have to be drinking around 10 cups (2.4 liters) of pop to outperform the ADI. Keep in mind that drinking this much pop is never recommended. Though there's a small hazard of grown-ups surpassing the ADI, the most perfect way to maintain a strategic distance from high levels of this added substance is to restrain your intake of processed foods. Limitations are especially vital for newborn children, little children, and children, as they may surpass the ADI in the event that taking after an exceedingly processed diet.
When a nourishment or refreshment containing both potassium benzoate and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is exposed to heat, it may form the chemical benzene. Benzene-containing nourishments may cause hives or extreme allergic reactions, particularly in individuals prone to skin inflammation, itchy skin, or a chronically stuffy or runny nose. Environmental introduction to benzene from components like engine vehicles, contamination, or cigarette smoke is additionally associated to an increase chance of cancer. Be that as it may, more research is required to decide whether ingesting little amount carries the same health dangers.
NO II Joanna Marie E. Baltazar, RND
References:
Potassium Benzoate
http://foodconstrued.com/2012/08/potassium-benzoate/
What Is Potassium Benzoate? Uses, Foods, and Side Effects
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/potassium-benzoate
What to know about potassium benzoate
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/potassium-benzoate
