TOXIC CHEMICALS TO AVOID: Introduction

Toxic Food Ingredients & Artificial Additives to Avoid

Do you know what you are eating?

There have been significant advances in food preparation over the last century. Today, more than half of the foods available in a typical supermarket are pre-packaged or prepared. They require little to no preparation before consumption. However, this convenience comes with a hidden cost. 

Many processed foods contain chemicals and additives that are either known to harm the human body or have been shown to cause adverse effects in laboratory animals. If these substances can harm animals in controlled studies, there's reason to believe they can harm humans as well, especially with regular exposure. The most concerning ingredients typically fall into three major categories: food additives, artificial sweeteners, and artificial colors.

Increasingly, health experts and independent researchers agree: it’s wise to minimize your exposure to synthetic chemicals in your food and household products. One of the most effective ways to reduce this exposure is by shopping primarily in the produce, dairy, and meat sections of your grocery store--areas where whole, minimally processed foods are more common. However, vigilance is still necessary. Harmful additives, antibiotics, and pesticide residues can still be found in conventionally produced meats, dairy products, and even some fruits and vegetables.

Whenever possible, choose organic, locally sourced, and pasture-raised options. But be aware: the label “Certified Organic” doesn’t always mean what it used to be. Many small, truly organic farms are being bought out by large food conglomerates (Big Agriculture), who often change production practices without publicizing it, while still using the organic label.

Stay vigilant. Know your farmer when you can. Question your labels. And stay informed, because what’s allowed today might not be safe tomorrow.

The health of our nation is directly impacted by what we consume. The consumption of processed foods and additives contributes significantly to the healthcare system's burden as more people suffer from diseases related to poor dietary choices.