Food colors are artificial or natural additives that are used to give foods specific color characteristics.

Features of food colors

According to the European classification, food colors are labeled from E100. E199 marking ends. Its order is determined by the color of the dye.

So, yellow colors are marked in the range E100-E109. Then orange dyes follow. Their marking is E110-E119. Red stands for codes E120-E129. Blue dyes mark E130-E139. Green food additives are designated E140-E149. Brown and black colors - E150-E159. Then there are E160-E199 - these are food colors that, for some reason, are not included in the above ranges.

All such additives are divided into artificial and natural. If dyes are obtained by synthesis in a laboratory, then they are classified as synthetic, that is, artificial substances. Natural food additives occur naturally. These are dyes of vegetable, mineral or animal origin.

There are also food colors that are identical to natural ones. These are special substances that are found in nature, but they are obtained on an industrial scale through synthesis.

Many people like it when food looks delicious. Of course, modern manufacturers are actively using this. To give the products a presentable look, food colors are added to them. Natural substances for this are obtained from leaves, flowers, roots, berries, canning and winemaking waste - films, seeds, peels. At the same time, dried or fresh plant product, jam or puree are not natural dyes, but independent ingredients. The concentration of the dye is determined by the climate, location, method of cultivation and collection of raw materials. Compared to synthetic dyes, natural raw materials contain fewer pigments.

To obtain natural food products, such physical effects as freezing, irradiation with sunlight, drying, grinding, pressing are carried out. Fermentation by means of alkali is also used. The raw material can be placed in a vacuum for ultrasonic irradiation. Of course, this will negatively affect the health of the consumer. Modern manufacturers choose a technique that allows you to obtain the largest amount of stable coloring pigment.

Flavonoids are most often found in nature. These are plant pigments that have the widest palette. Among them are anthocyanins. They are indicated on the packaging with the marker E163. Such substances are contained in grapes, cherries and currants, in tubers and potato flowers. They give shades of purple, pink, red, blue. They are used for coloring drinks, jam, cheeses, preserves.

In addition to color shades, such natural pigments successfully retain useful substances. They bring the natural taste and aroma to the products, which are characteristic of plant sources. However, due to their natural origin, such dyes give less saturated colors, which are less resistant to external influences, in contrast to their synthetic counterparts. From temperature changes, they can become discolored, acquire a different shade. Due to their instability to environmental influences, natural dyes are not used for products that have a shelf life and storage of more than one year.

Therefore, modern manufacturers began to use synthetic substances. They are obtained chemically. The color brightness of such dyes is stable, and no environmental influences will change this. Temperature drops are not terrible for such substances. Although the same indigo carmine (or E132), created to give a blue pigment, can change its color under the influence of light. Some other food colors react to the quality and hardness of the water, resulting in a lighter color. In live ferments, as well as in fermented milk products, synthetic substances lose their color.

The harm of food coloring

Most natural dyes are harmless to the human body. But there are also exceptions. For example, E103. This dye is obtained from the roots of Alkane dye, which can lead to the development of cancer. There are exceptions among synthetic dyes. Many of them are unusual for the body. When the permissible standards are increased, harm to health is inevitable. But some of the synthetic additives are used in the form of vitamins, which have a positive effect on the human body.

Currently, more than six thousand different chemical preservatives are used in the world. Often it is in them that the cause of intestinal disorders lies. For example, sodium benzoate, found in sodas, fruit juices, and margarine, often causes severe allergy attacks.

Sulfur dioxide is often added to dried fruits and molasses to prevent browning of peeled potatoes and apples. There is no significant harm from it. However, this substance destroys vitamin B in the body.

Dyes carcinogens deserve special attention. They can provoke hyperactivity, allergies, asthma. Colorants are found in potato and orange peels, butter and popcorn, hot dogs, marmalade, jellies, canned fruits, and candied cherries. But there is also a whole list of banned dyes that can cause digestive upset. In some poultry farms, certain additives are added to the feed that color the eggs in a certain color.

Emulsifiers and sweeteners can cause serious problems with human behavior, hyperactivity, and allergic manifestations. Saccharin increases the risk of bladder cancer. Stabilizers, thickeners and emulsifiers that are added to sour cream, ice cream and mayonnaise have a direct connection with skin diseases and neurological disorders.

Monosodium glutamate deserves special attention. It is added to make the product sweeter. Meanwhile, this food coloring triggers migraines and dizziness, depression and chest pains, and mood swings. With the use of products containing such additives, you need to be extremely careful.

Dyes are natural (natural) and artificial (synthetic). The first type combines substances that are found in the natural environment. The origin of these dyes can be different:

• vegetable;
• animal;
• mineral.

Artificial colors are additives synthetically obtained in special laboratories. There is also a class of substances identical to natural ones. These include additives that are present in nature, but for industrial use they are produced using chemical synthesis.

general characteristics

Food colors are powder or small crystals of different shades. Marked with indexes from E100 to E199. The number depends on the color of the substance.

Shades of dyes according to marking, from:

• E100 to E0109 - yellow;
• E110 to E119 - orange;
• E120 to E129 - red;
• E130 to E139 - blue;
• E140 to E149 - green;
• E150 to E159 - black and brown;
• E160 to E199 - others that are not included in the above ranges.

Natural food colors are extracted from natural raw materials. The material can be berries, leaves, flowers, roots, peel, seeds, etc. Such additives are less resistant to environmental influences than synthetic ones. The latter are obtained through a variety of chemical reactions.

Purpose and application

Dyes color products, enhance color and make it possible to preserve it for a longer time. Substances are widely used in the manufacture of confectionery, soft drinks, desserts, meat and fish products, canned fruits and vegetables, sauces, seasonings, etc. Dyes are used not only in the food industry, but also in many other industries - cosmetology, household chemicals, construction, pharmaceuticals and etc.

Impact on health

Most dyes of natural origin are not harmful to health. Many synthetic supplements are considered harmless when the maximum dosage is observed. Excessive consumption is hazardous to health.

Benefit. Natural dyes can be sources of nutrients that have a beneficial effect on the body.

Harm. The danger is the use of dyes in large quantities. This is especially true of synthetic components that are not characteristic of the body. Overdose threatens with indigestion, allergic reactions, exacerbation of chronic diseases, neurological disorders. Some substances are carcinogenic and provoke the development of cancer. Learn more about food colors and their health effects in this section.

Legislation

The use of dyes is regulated by special regulations that determine the maximum permissible doses for individual products. Additives are used in almost all countries, including Russia, Ukraine, USA, EU.

In Russia, the use of food colors is regulated;

• SanPin 2.3.2.1293-03 dated 26.05.2008;
• GOST R 52481-2010 "Food colorants. Terms and definitions".

Learn more about food coloring in the video below.

It's no secret that food colors have been used in industry for decades. The vast majority of products on which supermarket shelves are occupied today contain at least one dye. According to statistics from the American Center for Science in the Public Interest (USA), world food manufacturers use more than 7 million kilograms of synthetic dyes annually.

The topic of the harm of dyes to human health has been actively discussed for several years in the course of various public debates, and most experts are inclined to the idea of \u200b\u200ba more responsible approach to the use of dyes in the food industry.

Food colors and diseases provoked by them.

Many natural dyes used in the food industry were banned back in the middle of the 20th century. Therefore, most food manufacturers have gradually replaced them with synthetic dyes, which, in turn, pose no less danger to human health. Let's consider the most common types of dyes.

* Bright blue food coloring

It is often used in the preparation of flour products stuffed with berries, in yoghurts, cocktails, sweets. Bright blue food coloring can cause chromosomal abnormalities. For this reason, it has been officially banned in France, England, Sweden, Finland and Norway.

* Indigo

Most often found in sweets, soft drinks and some alcoholic beverages, animal feed. Promotes the development of brain tumors. This dye is currently only banned in Norway.

* Red-orange food coloring

Believe it or not, it is not uncommon for sellers of oranges and tangerines to use injections of red-orange dyes to improve the color and appearance of the fruit. Needless to say, what kind of danger such fruits carry for the health of the consumer. Red-orange dyes provoke bladder tumors. For this reason, they have been banned in the United States of America.

* Emerald green food coloring

This type of artificial color is banned in most European countries. Most often, emerald green dye is found in sweets, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, ice cream, and cosmetics. Increases the risk of bladder cancer.

* Yellow-orange food coloring

This dye is most often found in bakery products, candies, sausages, canned food, and cosmetics. It has a number of side effects, including the risk of a thyroid tumor, eczema, chromosomal abnormalities, allergies, asthma.

Alternative dyes

An alternative to synthetic dyes are dyes made from natural products: carrots, celery, spinach, red cabbage, berries, etc. Natural dyes do not have a rich color, are more sensitive to storage conditions and can affect the taste of the product. However, they are less hazardous to health and are more environmentally friendly in production.

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You might have guessed that all the colorful products in stores are made with food coloring. Of course, you can tint a cupcake or candy with the help of plant-based dyes, but the color in this case with a 99.9% probability will turn out to be faded, and the price of such a delicacy will be several times higher.

Fortunately, not all food colors are hazardous. Many of them can be used at home: for example, to make a cake or. And yet, among them there are those from whom one should keep at the maximum distance. This article contains five dyes that should not be on your menu.

Red 40 (Allura Red, Food Red 17)

"Red charming AC" - this is what this food coloring is called in Russian - not as charming as it wants to seem. American McDonald's are known to use a mixture of Red 40, corn syrup and red berries to produce a bright red hue in some dishes. At the same time, the dye contains benzidine - and in every sense an unpleasant compound. Most often, scientists say, Red 40 is hiding in baked goods, candy and drinks. A potentially safe amount is 7 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Blue 1 (E133, Brilliant Blue FCF)

Have you ever noticed blue stains on your legs after buying a new one? Meet Blue 1, also known as "E133 Shiny Blue", the culprit. It enters the body through the largest organ in our body -. And while the situation seems harmless at first glance, just take a shower and wash your jeans, there is something you need to worry about.

"Unlike other food colors, it crosses the blood-brain barrier," researcher Lisa Y. Lefferts told Live Strong. "This can lead to nerve cell damage, increasing the risk of chromosomal damage, allergic reactions and even cancer." Candy, desserts, and oral hygiene are some of the most popular shelters for Blue 1. However, don't be surprised if you find it in anything other than blue products. A potentially safe dose is 12 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Yellow 5 (E102, Acid Yellow 23)

Dye Yellow CI19140 is a food coloring that, according to The Feingold Association, can reduce the number of active sperm in men. But, of course, that's not all. Widely used in the manufacture of medicines, tartrazine (another name for it) is capable of provoking serious allergic reactions and damage the integrity of cells. The main problem is that Yellow 5 deprives the body of zinc, even if you get enough zinc from food. That is why experts suggest that the dye affects children the most, causing them to have problems with concentration and increased compulsiveness.

Yellow 6 (E110, Sunset Yellow FCF)

Another yellow on our list, also known as Orange Yellow S. Specialists of the American Center for Science in the Public Interest have asked the FDA to ban the dangerous food coloring, as, according to research, it can provoke tumors of the testicles and adrenal glands. Doctors also suspect that sunset may worsen asthma symptoms, hyperactivity and anxiety (including in children with ADHD). Most often, the dye is found in crackers. Potentially acceptable daily intake is 3.75 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Sugar color (E150, caramel color)

While most of us have very pleasant associations with the word "caramel", it is useful to keep in mind that caramel coloring can be dangerous. According to Lisa Lefferts, the highest levels were found in, as well as soy and Worcestershire sauce, beer and meat that does not require cooking ("just heat"). “The problem with the caramel color is that when it is produced using ammonia sulfite technology, it eventually contains cancer-causing substances such as 2-methylimidazole and 4-methylimidazole, or 2-MI and 4-MI,” explains Lefferts. The maximum allowable dose of such a dye is 200 mg per kilogram of weight.

Today in supermarkets you can find a huge variety of products, in which it is quite easy to get confused. Bright packaging, seductive pictures, shiny labels, plus all this is complemented by promotional price tags, and we make a purchase. Stop, first you need to carefully study the packaging, namely, the composition of this product. The fewer different incomprehensible words in it, the better. For example, GOST condensed milk contains only natural milk and sugar, but the same product, but produced according to TU, has a completely different composition. It contains stabilizers and emulsifiers, as well as various substances labeled E. Today we will talk about them: a table of harmful food additives should be at hand for everyone to avoid eating them.

What are various food additives used for?

First of all, you should be alerted to the "E" markings - they denote food additives that are used all over the world as preservatives and stabilizers, flavor and aroma enhancers, thickeners and leavening agents. All this is needed to improve the appearance and nutritional properties of the product, as well as to increase its shelf life.

Why do you need a table of harmful food additives, and are all substances labeled "E" harmful? No, there are neutral, harmful and even dangerous ones, and therefore it is important for each of us to know them and be able to distinguish them. After all, the quality and duration of our life is highly dependent on what we eat. The more vitamins and minerals in the diet and less "chemistry", the better.

Natural or artificial

Despite the assurances of manufacturers, almost all additives are artificial, and therefore potentially dangerous. These are chemicals of synthetic origin. Considering that even the safest of them sometimes cause a reaction in especially sensitive people, it is clear that the table of harmful food additives should be known to everyone. However, there is another subtlety here: not all manufacturers warn you that their product contains additives with the "E" index. Common phrases such as “does not contain artificial colors or flavors” are often avoided. Others note the presence of stabilizers and thickeners, but do not indicate which additives were used. In this case, there is only one way out: refuse to buy and choose a more honest manufacturer. This is especially important if the product is imported, because no one will give a guarantee that there are no prohibited products in its composition. Perhaps this will allow you to look differently at products in supermarkets, because, despite their attractive appearance, almost all of them contain preservatives.

What does the numeric code next to the letter "E" mean?

Below we will consider what the table of harmful food additives includes, but for now, let's look at what these mysterious numbers mean. If the code starts with one, then you have a dye. All preservatives start with 2, the number 3 stands for antioxidants - they are used to slow down or prevent spoilage of the product. All 4 are stabilizers, substances that help to maintain the consistency of the product in the required form. The number 5 denotes emulsifiers, they work in tandem with stabilizers and preserve the structure of the product. The enhancers of taste and aroma that create the notes and shades we love so much start at 6. Some products are added with special anti-foaming agents, they are marked with the number 9. If you have a four-digit index in front of you, then this indicates the presence of sweeteners. The realities of life show that you need to know harmful food additives ("E"). The table will help you identify foods that should not be consumed in time.

Such different food additives "E"

Behind this marking can be hidden completely harmless and even useful substances, for example, plant extracts. This is the well-known acetic acid (E260). Relatively safe E additives include baking soda (E500), calcium carbonate or regular chalk (E170), and many others.

However, there are much more harmful substances than useful ones. You are mistaken if you think that these include only artificial additives, natural ones also sin with a negative effect on the body. Moreover, the more often they are used, the stronger and more pronounced their effect will be.

Healthy Supplements

You should not immediately return the product to the shelf just because it contains E. It is necessary to look and analyze what substance is hidden behind it. The following table of harmful and beneficial food additives will help you make the right choice. For example, the most common apple contains pectin, ascorbic acid and riboflavin, that is, E300, E440, E101, but it cannot be called harmful.

The most common healthful supplements are curcumin, or E100 - these substances help control weight and are actively used in the manufacture of fitness products. E101 is a common vitamin B2, which is famous for synthesizing hemoglobin and participating in the metabolism. E160d is lycopene and it helps to strengthen the immune system. E270 is a powerful antioxidant that is widely used in pharmacology. For the enrichment of products with iodine, the additive E916 is used, that is, calcium iodate. We must not forget about E322 lecithin - this supplement supports immunity and improves blood formation.

Relatively harmless additives

Today the topic of our conversation is "Table of food additives" E. "Useful and harmful, they are ubiquitous in the most common food. In this group it is necessary to mention the dyes that are used by the most famous confectionery companies to give an attractive appearance to creams and cakes. This is chlorophyrol. , or E140, green dye. Also known is betanin, that is a dye of red color. It is extracted from the most common beets, the juice of which is perfect for coloring creams at home.

This group includes calcium carbonate (E170) and regular baking soda. Despite the fact that these substances do not pose a threat to life, in large quantities they can disrupt the acid-base balance in the body. E290 is regular carbon dioxide, and all carbonated drinks are made with it. Every kitchen should have a table of food additives E. Useful and harmful, they are today presented in such a large number that it is very difficult to remember what this or that substance means.

Additives to avoid

Today the table contains 11 groups of additives, among which there are dangerous, prohibited, harmful to the skin and violating blood pressure substances. Since everyone needs to avoid foods that contain dangerous "E-shots", we will look at each group separately. You should not be negligent about your health and rely on the manufacturer. Many of them are guided only by momentary benefits and do not think about their reputation. Moreover, it is much easier to periodically close production and open it under a different name, releasing products with new labels. This is why you need to know the "E" harmful food additives. The table will help you navigate and not forget what this or that code means. So let's get started.

Dangerous additives

There are many dyes in this group, so if you see pastries painted in a bright color, think about whether you should take them to your children. Be sure to study harmful food additives "E": the table is periodically adjusted, so you need to update the printout, which is best kept near the kitchen table.

This includes E102, namely tartrazine. It causes asthma attacks and is banned in several countries. E110 is a yellow dye, banned in many countries as it causes allergic reactions and nausea. E120 - Carminic Acid (Until research has proven harm, but doctors strongly recommend avoiding it). Red dyes E124, E127 and E129 are banned in a number of countries because they are carcinogenic. This also includes E155 (brown dye) and E180 (ruby rhytol).

E220 - sulfur dioskide - should be used with caution in people with renal failure. Feel free to put aside foods containing E220, E222, E223, E224, E228, E233, E242. E400, E401, E402 are recognized as dangerous.

Very dangerous

If the previous group of additives is dangerous or potentially dangerous, then representatives of this category should be treated more than carefully. The fact is that the supplement table gives you only the code designations, behind which are substances that stimulate the growth of cancer cells. To completely avoid contact with them, you will have to give up most confectionery products and seriously reconsider your view of the diet. The simpler the better, which is why branded biscuits, cereals and fruits are the safest choices.

However, back to our conversation. The table of the most dangerous additives "E" includes dyes such as E123 (amaranth). It is banned all over the world, as it causes developmental pathologies in the fetus. In addition, this group includes E510, E513E, E527.

Prohibited substances: table of the most harmful food additives "E"

It should be noted that Russia has very soft rules for manufacturing companies. Only 5 supplements are officially banned, although the number is much higher worldwide. This is E952 - cyclamic acid and its sodium, potassium and calcium salts. It is a sugar substitute that has been discontinued because it was found to be a strong carcinogen. E-216 - propyl para-hydroxybenzoic acid - is prohibited in Russia as well. But this is not all the harmful food additives ("E"). The table refers to a number of dyes to this group - these are E152, E130, E125, E126, E121, E111.

Substances causing skin rashes

Everyone imagines the influence of carcinogens on the body, so you need to do everything necessary in order to exclude from the menu products containing the most harmful food additives. A table at hand will help you stop in time and not make an unnecessary purchase. Especially women should think about, because many conditionally safe supplements cause deterioration of the skin. This is E151 (black, shiny BN) - in a number of countries it is generally prohibited. Second on the list is E231 (orthophenylphenol) and E232 (calcium orthophenylphenol). Aspartame, or E951, a favorite sugar substitute by many, also has a number of side effects and is not recommended for use without any particular reason.

Let's summarize

You can use this table every day. A food additive, the harmful effect of which is not fully understood, should be excluded from the diet. This group includes a lot of different "E" - these are E124, E122, E141, E150, E171, E173, E247, E471. To optimize your diet and eat as little synthetic additives as possible, study the packaging of the product before buying. The less in the composition of various components and incomprehensible terms, the better. Do not buy unfamiliar products, as well as those whose packaging lacks the composition, and give preference to well-known manufacturers.

Avoid foods with bright, unnatural colors. They may contain too many dyes and preservatives. Give preference to natural products, grains, fermented milk, as well as vegetables and fruits. It is such a diet that is guaranteed not to contain harmful and hazardous substances. To stay healthy for as long as possible, try to avoid foods that use harmful food additives ("E"). A table that includes the main ones will become your reliable assistant.

Paints and varnishes. Isn't it harmful?

It is no secret that painting is becoming one of the most common and popular solutions to the problem of decorating walls and floors in a house. It is really, practical, convenient, profitable, economical, and the appearance of such painted walls and floors looks pretty good... In a word, it is an excellent solution for repairs, but, just what is the situation with how such painted surfaces affect our health? Isn't it harmful to paint the walls in the bedroom, nursery and living room? Today, we will talk about paints, and whether such an option is safe for you and me ...

Residents of cities (large and small) are familiar with the problem of air pollution. And, from the fact that out of those twenty-six kilograms of clean air (or twelve thousand liters) that we need per day, we inhale only a fourth of it, and the rest is made up of toxic fumes of chemicals that surround us, dust and microparticles of dirt, we often complain of chronic fatigue, nervousness and depression. Of course, those who live near highways and industrial zones are in a special risk zone and lack of clean air (we have already mentioned this on our website, in the article on how to make the air cleaner). And, moreover, there are paints and repairs, someone might ask. It turns out that there is still a relationship between all of this. The peculiarity and even the uniqueness of the air on city streets lies in the fact that under the influence of atmospheric influences it is nevertheless purified. The wind blew, the temperature dropped, and clouds of automobile exhaust gases scattered over the city. Another thing is our home with you. Our home atmosphere, our composition of "home" air is stable (unless, of course, you purify it with filters to purify the air and place plants on every square meter - see the article indoor plants that purify the air). And, it contains just all those toxic fumes from those materials that we preferred when we made repairs. Therefore, scientists say that

the average citizen still spends ninety percent of his time not on the street, but in a room where the air is ten times more toxic and harmful than in an open space ...

What makes our indoor air so poisonous? First of all, these are synthetic finishing materials, and petrochemical derivatives - synthetic wall paints - alkyd, acrylic, nitro, polyurethane… In a word, just everything that we were going to talk about with you today. Also, our air in the house is poisoned by chipboard furniture, stretch ceilings, vinyl wallpaper, linoleum, plastic products (windows, appliances, furniture) ... Literally everything that surrounds us is a danger to our health!
Why are synthetic paints so dangerous, you ask? And, the fact that such materials emit harmful organic and carcinogenic compounds:

• Formaldehyde (included in the list of the most dangerous carcinogens, highly toxic, affects the reproductive organs, skin, eyes, respiratory tract, central nervous system, can cause genetic abnormalities),
• Xylene (causes skin diseases),
• Phenol (a toxic substance that evaporates at room temperature and has a pungent odor, in the form of dust or phenolic vapors penetrates the human body through mucous surfaces, respiratory tract and skin, can cause dizziness, headache, loss of strength, decreased immunity, allergies),
• Toluene (causes eye disease and affects the central nervous system)

And this is not the whole list of pleasant surprises of paints and varnishes ...
All these toxic substances enter our body through the lungs, are transported into the bloodstream and can cause fatal and incurable diseases. Someone might say that only freshly painted surfaces are dangerous, but this is far from the case. Intense fumes, of course, are observed immediately after the staining process, but they do not stop over time, they just become weaker, but no less toxic. And, now imagine that your room, where ninety percent of the surfaces are painted with paints and varnishes, but it is more like a gas chamber that slowly but surely kills all living things in it.

So, is it really worth forgetting about paints now? Such a radical solution is useless if you can find the so-called eco paintwhich are made from natural materials. And, how can this be, you ask? In our progressive age, anything can be.

What is the difference between such eco paints from synthetic paints and varnishes ...

First of all, the composition of such paints differs... If, in synthetic versions (alkyd, acrylic), oil is used as the main raw material (although it is a natural product, it is very difficult to subject it to simple chemical reactions, therefore, it is necessary to resort to ozone and chlorine in the technology of manufacturing such "harmful" paints, this poisons the starting material for paint), then, in natural eco-friendly paints you will not find in the composition of oil (this also applies to derivatives of oil). Only natural ingredients - eucalyptus, orange, linseed, rosemary, lavender oils, casein (a product obtained from cottage cheese), vegetable resins, clay, natural dyes. Here is such a composition of paint that is absolutely harmless to human health. Naturally, such environmental friendliness and naturalness is an order of magnitude higher than an ordinary synthetic poison in an iron can, but health is more expensive!

Another difference between such eco paints is the fact that manufacturers of such paints are not afraid to indicate the full composition of their product, in contrast to the manufacturers of synthetic products, which, apart from "wall paint", do not write anything else on the label. And, do not be afraid because they are absolutely sure that their product does not pose a threat to human health.

What such "correct" paints do not emit any! toxic !!! fumes into the air - science has already proven it. In addition, another indisputable advantage of such a natural painting material is the fact that in the process of painting, there is no “polymer film” effect, which does not allow the surface to “breathe”. This paint lasts longer than its synthetic products, does not flake off or wipe off.

But, unfortunately, not many of us pay attention to such little things as wall paint. They buy the first can of paint they come across and arrange according to the color scheme and cost and start repairing. After a few days, your home shines clean and ... exudes toxic fumes. And, after a few more weeks, you suddenly start to get sick. And, few of us will build a chain: synthetic paint-repair-disease ... And, meanwhile, experts say that every year the number of cases when the cause of illness, poisoning, allergies is precisely paint and varnish materials is increasing.
Here are some more interesting facts about paint ...

• polyvinyl chloride is a part of many paints and varnishes, it poses a particular danger at room temperature, when it begins to decompose, and at elevated temperatures in the room and sunlight on painted surfaces. PVC vapors enter the human body, both through the lungs and through the skin, are absorbed into the bloodstream and into the liver. As a result, if you have a strong and healthy body, you may suddenly develop an allergy, and if you are not proud of good health, everything can end up much worse - damage to the nervous system, kidneys and liver.
• according to experts, more than half of the products on the paint market are hazardous to human health. Therefore, do not be lazy to carefully read the composition of the paint on the label and give preference to all the same trusted manufacturers. The ideal solution to the question of painting is, of course, the choice in favor of eco paints.

We all strive to create coziness and comfort in our home, but remember that you will be really cozy and comfortable in your home only when you are healthy and you will be surrounded by materials that do not pose a threat to your life. ...

Shevtsova Olga, World without Harm.

Table of prohibited and harmful food additives.

Food additive designations with the letter E appeared on all food packaging in Russia after 1996.
The inscription on the packaging "E124 is a safe food additive approved by ES standards" does not guarantee the safety of the additive! Firstly, this does not mean that this supplement can be consumed in any quantity.

Secondly, not everything that is permitted in Europe is permitted in Russia.

The results of new scientific research are leading to the creation of some and the limitation of the consumption of other supplements, even if they were previously considered safe.

E 100 - 199 - dyes
Foods with red and yellow dyes, such as tartrazine E102, often cause food allergies. This dye is used in sweets, ice cream, confectionery, and drinks.

E127 has a toxic effect, provoking diseases of the thyroid gland.

E 200 - 299 - preservatives
The infamous sodium nitrites and nitrates are E250 and E251. They are still used everywhere, despite the fact that they cause a variety of allergic and inflammatory reactions, headache, hepatic colic, irritability and fatigue.

Substances designated by codes E231 and E232 are harmful to the skin. These additives are used in the production of various sausages, meat products with a long shelf life and canned food.

Dyes and preservatives have a bad effect on the immune system and disrupt the natural intestinal microflora. And functional disorders of the intestine sometimes lead to oncological and cardiovascular pathologies. Metabolism and liver are affected. On February 22, 2005, the use of additives with the E216 and E217 index was prohibited in Russia in order to prevent the threat of the emergence of mass non-infectious diseases (poisoning) of the population. Scientists speak out more harshly - these substances can provoke the emergence of malignant tumors. Previously, these additives were used in the production of meat and confectionery products.

E 300 - 399 - antioxidants
Antioxidants (also called antioxidants) slow down the oxidative process in fat and oil emulsions. Fats in this way do not go rancid and do not change their color over time.

E311 can cause allergies and asthma attacks. An asthma attack can also be triggered by E320 and E321 additives (included in some fatty products and chewing gums). E320 retains water in the body and increases cholesterol.

E 400 - 499 - thickeners, stabilizers
Thickeners and stabilizers increase the viscosity. They are almost always added to low-fat foods such as mayonnaise and yogurt. The thick consistency creates the illusion of a “quality product”. They can provoke diseases of the digestive system.

E 500 - 599 - emulsifiers
Emulsifiers create a homogeneous mixture of immiscible products such as water and oil. Negatively affect the liver, cause indigestion. Emulsifiers E510, E513 and E527 are especially dangerous in this respect.

E 600 - 699 - flavor enhancers
"Miracle Seasoning" allows you to save on natural meat, poultry, fish, mushrooms, seafood. A few chopped fibers of a natural product or even its extract are added to the dish, generously flavored with an amplifier, and a "real" taste is obtained. The additive successfully masks the poor quality of the original product, for example, old or low-grade meat. The flavor enhancer is found in almost all fish, chicken, mushroom, soy semi-finished products, as well as in chips, croutons, sauces, various dry seasonings, bouillon cubes and dry soups. No recipe in a fast food restaurant is complete without flavor enhancers. At the same time, the permissible norms can be exceeded - the maximum dosage of this additive should create the illusion of a "quality product" They can provoke diseases of the digestive system.

The most famous flavor enhancer is monosodium glutamate E621. There has been a fierce debate around this supplement for many years. American neurophysiologist John Olney discovered in the mid-1970s that monosodium glutamate can cause brain damage in rats. And the Japanese scientist Hiroshi Oguro recently proved that this food additive has an adverse effect on the retina. 30% of people who frequently eat MSG food complain of headaches, increased heart rate, muscle weakness, fever, and chest distention. This additive is especially often used in oriental cuisine, therefore, experts have combined the described symptoms with the term "Chinese restaurant syndrome". Monosodium glutamate is the sodium salt of the amino acid glutamate. There is a lot of it, for example, in celery root. This amino acid and its salts are involved in the transmission of impulses in the central nervous system, have an exciting effect and are used in psychiatry. In its pure form, this substance has neither taste nor smell, but enhances the taste of any dish. To a person who frequently consumes monosodium glutamate, natural food seems tasteless, since the receptors for taste recognition lose sensitivity. This is how a person becomes addicted to the “tasty condiment”. In order not to scare away the buyer, manufacturers do not always call the E621 seasoning by their name. It is often referred to as "flavoring" or "flavoring agent". Sometimes this wording also hides E622 - potassium glutamate, which is prohibited for use in Russia. Of the 18 well-known flavor enhancers in Russia, 6 are allowed, but they can hardly be considered useful.

E 900 - 999 - defoamers, glazers, sweeteners, leavening agents.
These additives prevent or reduce foam formation, create a shiny smooth shell, give the product a sweet taste and make the dough more fluffy. Antifoaming agents, glazing agents and leavening agents do not pose a great danger to the body.

The biggest complaint is about the sweetener aspartame.
It is included in over 6,000 products. At 30 degrees Celsius, aspartame begins to break down into methanol (methyl alcohol) and formaldehyde, which is considered a carcinogen. Continuous use of aspartame often causes headaches, ringing in the ears, allergies and depression.
Another sweetener - cyclamate - has been banned in the USA, France, Great Britain and some other countries since 1969. It is thought to cause kidney failure. These sweeteners are widely used in the beverage industry. They increase appetite and thirst.

E-supplements banned in Russia
E121 - citrus red, dye
E123 - red amaranth, dye
E240 - formaldehyde, preservative
E-additives, legal in Russia, but considered dangerous
They cause the growth of malignant tumors: E103, E105, E121, E123, E125, E126, E130, E131, E143, E152,
E210, E211, E213-217, E240, E330, E447.
They cause diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: E221-226, E320-322, E338-341, E407, E450, E461-466.
Allergens: E230, E231, E232, E239, E311-313.
They cause liver and kidney diseases: E171 173, E320-322.

Why is dye e harmful?

If you mean dyes as food additives in foodstuffs, they are certainly not poisons, but they have no benefit or nutritional value. Manufacturers began to use them in order to embellish their product, to make it more appetizing in appearance. The harmful effects of artificial food colors are not well understood, but it is recommended to choose foods without them. There are natural food colors - beetroot and carrot juice, red berry juice, lemon peel decoction, etc. These dyes will not harm you.

Don't go here

E-dyes can cause itchy skin, asthma, and they make children anxious.
E-102, tartrazine
Yellow dye. By its nature, it is coal tar, belongs to industrial waste.
Contains In jellies, jelly juices, chewing sweets, cream soufflés, jelly candies, caramel, biscuit rolls, marmalade, ice cream, mashed potatoes, soups, yoghurts, mustard.
It can provoke an attack of bronchial asthma, migraine, itching of the skin and blurred vision. Children from it can become irritable, restless, and sleep poorly.
E-104, yellow quinoline
Lemon yellow dye.
Contains In cake cream, smoked fish, colored dragees, cough drops, colored chewing gum.
May cause itchy skin and dermatitis. In children, it causes the same problems as E-102.
E-110, yellow "sunset" FCF, orange-yellow S
Orange dye.
Contains In "colored" sweets, drinks, sauces, packaged soups, oriental spices.
It provokes various allergies, worsening of nasal breathing, runny nose, nausea and abdominal pain. Increased anxiety in children. Banned in many countries.
E-122, azorubin, karmuazin
The dye is red-brown.

Dangerous for asthmatics, may cause rashes and allergies.
E-124, ponceau 4R (crimson 4R), cochineal red
Red-orange dye.
Contains In confectionery, carbonated drinks, sauces of this color, salad dressings, salami.
It is considered a carcinogen. Exacerbates the course of bronchial asthma.
E-129, red special
Orange dye.
Contains In confectionery, soda, sauces of this color.
May cause allergies and cancer. Banned in 9 European countries.
E-211, sodium benzonate
It is a preservative with antibiotic and color enhancer properties.
Contains In sweet soda water, barbecue sauces, seafood paste, salmon oil, seafood in brine, caviar salad with sour cream sauce, soy sauces, sweets, ice cream.
It provokes the development of allergies, especially if it enters the body in combination with E-102.