CHEMICALS CONTAINED IN PRESERVATIVES

As we all know, there are special chemicals added to food, cosmetics, detergents and almost everything else available for us in the market today. These chemicals are added in order to keep them in good condition for long periods of time. These are referred to as preservatives and they, under certain conditions, delay the growth of microorganisms without destroying or affecting the quality of the product.

Chemical preservatives added to food helps to keep the food fresh by inhibiting the decay process. These preservatives can generally be divided in to three main types. They are antimicrobials, which inhibit the growth of bacteria, mould and yeast; antitoxidants that slow the air oxidation of fats and lipids and the third type of preservatives that inhibit the ripening of fruits and also block the enzyme activity in them after harvest. One such chemical is the sulferdioxide ans its related compounds called sulfites. According to Hassan Gourama, associate professor of food science at Pennsylvania State University, sulfites inhibit the microbial growth through a number of actions. Sulfites inhibit the degradation reactions in fruits and also keep raisins and other dried fruits from losing their light color.

Preservatives have been added to cosmetics, detergents and other household items during the last few decades. The main use of these chemicals is just the same as they are used in food production industry. They also prevent the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. However, unlike the chemicals used in food substances, these preservatives are relatively stronger and may spoil the product and cause harm to the user. Preservatives used in cosmetics may include parabens, benzyl alcohol tetrasodium EDTA.

Much is said about preservatives being contained in products, where there is a lot of controversy about this matter. The most important thing about the use of preservatives is that it must be safe to use. It is also important for it to be in balance. Preservatives should be added that is just enough to control the microbial growth and not too much that it may cause allergies such as dermatitis and show other side effects. So, when purchasing ant product, we must ensure that the product is stable and safe to use without the growth of microorganisms, yet not over filled with preservatives.