The Poisoning of America

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Recommended: Effects of food additives in the body

Most of us have enjoyed that hot bowl of Campbell soup after a cold winter day. Did you know you are also enjoying a big helping of monosodium glutamate? Don’t know what that is? Well, you’re not alone. Not many people realize what it is they’re putting in their bodies. It can be quite shocking to read some of the side effects that come along with many common items found in most kitchens throughout this country. It is a common assumption that the FDA has the American people’s best interest in mind. If that is so, why are there so many unknown ingredients in the majority of the food we eat? Some of the additives found in FDA approved food can cause serious health risks. The FDA does not, however, conduct its own testing. It also does not approve product labeling or what is included on the nutrition label. The FDA can should change the way they test and market items that are potentially dangerous. Americans have the right to know just what that is they’re eating. The Federal Drug and Food Administration, or FDA, began in 1906 as part of the Pure Food and Drug Act. The 1906 Act was passed due to a culmination of bills passed that were focused on severe abuses in the consumer market. Laws and guidelines were created by the FDA to monitor food safety. Product manufacturing facilities are inspected to show they are in compliance with these laws and guidelines. The FDA does not, however, test to see if food is safe for human consumption. The manufacturers are responsible for testing food, and then give their results to the FDA for inspection. Unfortunately testing done on food today does not show us the long term effect of new additives and chemical compound. It may take several years for a new chemical or additive to cause side effects... ... middle of paper ... ...blic knowledge. It will enable consumers to make conscious decisions on the food they are serving to themselves and their families. Using labels that include scientific names of additives, but no additional information is confusing to consumers. Additives like BVO or GMO’s can have the potential for health problems for some individuals. If the FDA required proper labeling of these ingredients, people could make the choice themselves. It is misleading to not include any ingredient in a product. The FDA can and should change the way they test and market items that are potentially dangerous. Every person should have the right to know what they are putting in their bodies. Food should be about supporting a healthy body and not a healthy wallet. Cutting corners and adding food that causes long term health issues is more expensive than using dangerous chemicals in food.

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