Things Worth Noting
Ergotism is a dangerous illness caused by ergot alkaloids from the fungus Claviceps purpurea, which infects grains like rye, wheat, and barley. The fungus forms toxic sclerotia that contaminate food and feed, leading to symptoms such as hallucinations, convulsions, and gangrene. Ergot alkaloids are powerful compounds that can harm the nervous system and blood vessels […]
Many food additives allowed in the U.S. are banned in Europe and other countries due to health risks. The FDA approves substances unless proven unsafe, while the European Food Safety Authority uses a precautionary approach, banning anything with potential harm. Common U.S.-allowed additives include potassium bromate (linked to cancer, banned in EU/China), BHA/BHT (possible carcinogens […]
Testing food and drinks for contaminants like PFAS, microplastics, and other harmful substances is essential for public health and environmental protection. PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” and microplastics, which accumulate in the food web, pose significant risks to human health, including cancers, immune system disruption, and metabolic disorders. These pollutants enter food through packaging, water, […]
Lab-grown meat, also called cultivated or cell-cultured meat, is facing bans in seven U.S. states, including Texas, where Senate Bill 261 blocks its sale starting September 2025. Upside Foods and Wildtype Inc. sued Texas in federal court on September 2, 2025, claiming the ban violates the Commerce Clause and protects local ranchers unfairly. Their products […]
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, […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]