Forever Chemicals vs. Synthetic Additives

Forever Chemicals / Per- and Polyfuoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

Forever chemicals or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and synthetic food additives are both categories of chemicals that have been widely used in modern society.

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that are resistant to heat, water, and oil, and they have been used in a variety of industrial and consumer products, including non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foams.

The categories of PFAS are often divided into two main groups: perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs). PFAAs include chemicals such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), which have been used in products like non-stick coatings and firefighting foam. PFCs include chemicals like perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), which have been used in stain-resistant coatings and water-repellent fabrics.

Synthetic Food Additives

Synthetic food additives, on the other hand, are chemicals that are added to food during processing or preparation to improve flavor, texture, appearance, and shelf life.

Similarly, synthetic food additives are grouped into different categories based on their function and chemical composition. These categories include preservatives, antioxidants, emulsifiers, stabilizers, sweeteners, flavorings, and colorings:

• Preservatives, such as sodium benzoate and calcium propionate, are added to food to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
• Antioxidants, such as ascorbic acid and tocopherols, are added to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils in food.
• Emulsifiers and stabilizers, such as lecithin and carrageenan, are added to improve texture and consistency.
• Sweeteners, such as sucralose and aspartame, are added to provide sweetness without adding calories.
• Flavorings, such as vanillin and cinnamon, are added to enhance the taste of food.
• Colorings, such as caramel color and titanium dioxide, are added to give food a specific color or appearance.

The Difference Is Clear

Studying the food you eat and the material objects you physically touch can be beneficial for your health in numerous ways. By being aware of the composition of the food you eat, you can make informed decisions about your diet and ensure that you are consuming a balanced and healthy diet. This can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, and improve your overall quality of life.

Furthermore, being aware of the materials in the objects you touch can help you avoid harmful substances that may be present in some products, such as chemicals that can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. By choosing products made from safe and sustainable materials, you can help protect your health as well as the environment. Overall, studying the composition of the things you interact with on a daily basis can help you lead a healthier and more fulfilling life.