Reaction to Food Additives - Research Paper Example

Olestra contents include sucrose and six to eight fatty acids. It is used in potato chips, cheese puffs, crackers, and popcorn. There are severe health problems that arise because of its usage such as “abdominal cramps, loose stools, and diarrhea” (Longgood, 1960). It contains no calories and even inhibits the absorption of some vitamins, and nutrients.

Moreover, aspartame is also a highly consumed additive in homes. It is a compound composed of “50% phenylalanine, 40% aspartic acid, and 10% methanol” (Minich, 2009). Its adverse effects can range from minimal health issues, such as “headaches, memory loss, confusion, insomnia, depression to acute diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and brain tumors” (Richmond, 1986).

“Acesulfame potassium or a calorie-free artificial sweetener is also a most reliant food additive. It is potassium salt of 6 methyl-1, 2, 3- oxathiazine-4(3H)-one 2, 2-dioxide” (Minich, 2009). Experiments have identified it in powder form in white color, which is “200 times sweeter than sucrose” (Minich, 2009). It is found in baked food, chewing gums, and soft drinks. The dangers of consuming Acesulfame potassium are that it confuses satiety signals and aggravates the craving for sweet products which could worsen health. Leukemia and various chronic respiratory diseases may also occur because of its consumption.

It might be time-consuming and troublesome to read lengthy labels to ensure that these food additives are not present or present in high quantities. However, if one wants to maintain health and long life, he should ensure his diet is hazardous additives free.