Harmful Additives in Your Bakery Favorites

Unhealthy Ingredients in Commercially-Produced Baked Goods

The growing awareness and demand for healthier food options have led to a critical evaluation of the ingredients in commercially-produced baked goods. Recent studies and reports reveal concerning details about the unhealthy additives, preservatives, and chemicals often found in these products.

This article synthesizes information from various sources to highlight the potential health risks associated with these ingredients and suggests a healthier alternative: Keto Powerflax Baking Mix.

1. Potassium Bromate: A dough conditioner known to disrupt endocrine function and potentially cause various cancers. Despite being banned in many countries, it remains in use in some places due to its effectiveness in making dough more elastic.
2. Azodicarbonamide (ACA): Referred to as the “yoga mat chemical” because of its primary use in rubber and plastic products. It’s known to exacerbate asthma and allergic reactions, yet it’s approved for use in food in the US.
3. DATEM: A controversial dough conditioner with limited information available on its health impacts. Some studies suggest it could cause heart muscle fibrosis and adrenal overgrowth.
4. Preservatives and Emulsifiers: Ingredients like calcium propionate and sodium stearoyl lactylate, while generally considered safe, have been linked to migraines, digestive issues, and negative impacts on the gut microbiome.

In the exploration of the prevalence and impact of additives, preservatives, and dough enhancers in bakery items found in grocery stores, recent studies and market analyses have shed light on the significant incorporation of such substances in our daily diet.

A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics highlighted that 60% of foods purchased by Americans contain technical food additives, marking a 10% increase since 2001​ (EatRightPRO)​. This rise in additive usage is not limited to coloring or flavoring agents but extends to preservatives and sweeteners, impacting the overall nutritional quality and potential health outcomes associated with ultra-processed foods.

Further insight into breadmaking practices reveals the use of a variety of chemical additives to enhance texture, shelf life, and appearance.

Notably, l-Cysteine (E920) and emulsifiers such as mono- and diglycerides (E471) and DATEM (E472) are extensively employed. L-Cysteine acts as a reducing agent, softening the dough and reducing mixing and proofing times, while emulsifiers are used to improve crumb softness and dough strength​ (IntechOpen – Open Science Open Minds)​.

The market for food additives, valued at USD 100 billion in 2022, is expected to grow at a 7% CAGR from 2023 to 2032​ (Global Market Insights Inc.)​. This growth is driven by consumer demand for cleaner labels and innovations in plant-based food ingredients. However, there’s a growing awareness and concern about the health effects of synthetic food additives, leading some consumers to prefer organic and additive-free alternatives.

This trend suggests a critical need for transparency in food labeling and a shift towards using natural alternatives to synthetic additives in bakery products. Incorporating natural sources of ascorbic acid from plants and fruits instead of chemically synthesized versions could serve as a viable alternative for enhancing the nutritional profile of baked goods without compromising on safety or quality​ (IntechOpen – Open Science Open Minds)​.