The FDA has issued a Class II recall for Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Coca-Cola Original Taste, and Sprite 12oz cans due to possible metal contamination. Announced on Oct. 20, the recall involves over 4,000 units sold in Texas, produced by Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages LLC. Affected products include 12 and 35-packs with specific lot codes (FEB0226MAA, JUN2926MAA, […]
Tag: food safety
Heavy Metals in Protein Powder: Risks, Testing, and Safe Choices
Heavy metals like lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury contaminate many protein powders, posing health risks with long-term use. These toxins enter through soil, industrial pollution, or manufacturing, especially in plant-based and organic products, which can have up to three times more lead than whey or animal-based options. Chocolate-flavored powders often contain higher levels due to […]
Microplastics in Packaged Foods: Health Risks and Solutions
Microplastics and nanoplastics from plastic packaging contaminate packaged foods, especially processed items and beverages, posing health risks through ingestion. These tiny particles, formed by migration, leaching, or environmental pollution, carry toxic additives like phthalates and BPA, linked to inflammation, immune issues, infertility, and cancer risks. Advanced detection methods, such as FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, confirm […]
Ziploc Bags Microplastics: Lawsuit & Health Risks
A class action lawsuit in California claims Ziploc bags, made from polyethylene and polypropylene, release harmful microplastics and nanoplastics when microwaved or frozen, despite being marketed as safe. These tiny plastic fragments can leach into food, leading to ingestion and health risks like dementia, heart disease, cancer, and reproductive issues. Microplastics may cross the blood-brain […]
Dark Truth About McDonald’s Fries: Ingredients, Health Risks
McDonald’s fries, made from Russet Burbank potatoes, are a fast food icon, but their “dark truth” involves controversial ingredients and health risks. Grown with pesticides like Monitor, potatoes are blanched with sodium acid pyrophosphate and pre-fried in vegetable oils (canola, corn, soybean) containing omega-6 fatty acids, linked to inflammation. Additives like TBHQ, dimethylpolysiloxane, and natural […]
EU’s 1997 US Chicken Ban: Chlorine Wash, Trade, Safety Debate
In 1997, the EU banned U.S. chicken imports due to concerns over chlorine-based antimicrobial treatments, like chlorine dioxide, used to reduce pathogens such as Salmonella. The EU’s precautionary principle prioritizes strict hygiene standards and poultry welfare, viewing these chemical rinses as risky, potentially masking poor farm practices. The U.S. insists chlorine washes are safe and […]
Is Steaming Food Healthier? Benefits, Nutrients & Cooking Tips
Steaming is a top healthy cooking method that preserves nutrients better than boiling or frying. It retains water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C, minerals, and antioxidants in vegetables, seafood, and grains, supporting wellness and digestive health. Unlike frying, steaming uses no oil, aiding calorie reduction and heart health. Compared to boiling, it prevents nutrient loss into […]
Robots, Wear, and Heavy Metal Contamination in Food Safety
Robots and automation revolutionize manufacturing and food processing, but wear and tear and heavy metal contamination pose challenges. Industrial robots face mechanical fatigue, corrosion, and abrasion, requiring preventive maintenance and IoT monitoring to extend lifespan and prevent metal residues from contaminating products. Heavy metals like lead and mercury threaten food and product safety, entering via […]
Charred Meat Risks: Health, Safety & Safe Cooking Tips
Charred and burnt meat, prized for its smoky flavor from the Maillard reaction, poses health risks due to harmful compounds like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heterocyclic amines (HCAs), acrylamide, and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). These carcinogens, formed during high-temperature cooking like grilling, may increase cancer risk and cause oxidative stress. To enjoy grilled meat safely, […]
Is Plastic Safe for Storing Food Oils? Key Risks & Tips
Storing food oils and fats in plastic containers is common, but is it safe? Food-grade plastics like PET, HDPE, and PP are designed to minimize chemical leaching, meeting strict FDA and EU standards. However, concerns about BPA, phthalates, and other compounds migrating into oils persist, especially with heat or long storage. Oils can extract chemicals […]
