1. Artificial food coloring
Photo by 100daysofrealfood.com
Where we find it: Hate to break it to you, but it’s basically in everything (including candy, cereal, drinks, cake mix, macaroni and cheese, and pet food). It’s even listed as the first ingredient in Kellogg’s Nutrigrain Bars…Lookout!
Where it is banned: Norway, Finland, France, Austria, and the U.K.
What is wrong with it: They alter our perception of food and are made of chemicals that are linked to brain tumors in mice, bladder cancer, allergic reactions, cancer of adrenal glands and kidneys, hyperactivity in children, nerve cell deterioration, and thyroid tumors. In addition, food coloring is made from chemicals in petroleum (which makes gasoline and tar).
Photo by mywholefoodlife.com
2. Olean
Where we find it: It’s a chemical in fat-free snacks… Like potato chips.
Where it is banned: U.K. & Canada
What is wrong with it: Humans cannot process the substance properly. Let’s just say that you better have a potty nearby if you are going to snack on fat-free chips!
Tip: Try baked chips instead.
Photo by topyaps.com
3. Farm-Raised Salmon
Where we find it: Usually in salmon that is labeled as “Atlantic Salmon”
Where it is banned: Australia & New Zealand
What is wrong with it: To be honest, there is almost too much wrong. Harsh toxins and antibiotics make up the fishes’ diet — poor things! The same chemicals may also cause eyesight damage and cancer in humans.
Photo by media.npr.org
4. BVO (Brominated Vegetable Oil):
Where we find it: Mountain Dew and other “nuclear” looking, citrus drinks. It enables the food coloring to stick to the water.
Where it is banned: Japan, Europe, and 100 other countries…
What is wrong with it: It is made up of some of the same chemicals that prevent carpets from catching on fire. The chemical is actually a flame retardant, nervous system depressant, and endocrine disrupter. It also causes reproductive and behavioral problems.
Tip: Think twice before you indulge in the Dew!
Photo by redalerpolitics.com
5. Ractopamine-infused meat
Where we find it: In meat that has a reduced-fat label. It’s common in meat from pigs, cattle, and turkey.
Where it is banned: A whooping 160 countries, including Russia, China, Taiwan, and Europe!
What is wrong with it: It is harmful to the cardio vascular system, and it causes hyperactivity. In addition, chromosomal issues and behavioral changes have been reported. “Fun” fact: The United States doesn’t even look for this drug in meat.
Tip: Eat at your own risk!
Photo by bereklywellness.com