ZOE Science & Nutrition

Food additives exposed: The artificial dyes and chemicals to avoid | Marion Nestle

73 snips
Aug 21, 2025
Marion Nestle, a renowned Professor of Nutrition at NYU and author of 'Food Politics', dives into the world of food additives and their health implications. She reveals how the U.S. system allows companies to self-certify additives as safe, while Europe imposes stricter regulations. Marion discusses the hidden dangers in common products like bread, questions the safety of artificial colors, and highlights the regulatory gaps that leave consumers vulnerable. Tune in to learn how to navigate your food choices more wisely!
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ANECDOTE

Wonder Bread Reveals Hidden Additives

  • Jonathan inspects a Wonder Bread label and finds dozens of unfamiliar additives used as dough conditioners.
  • Marion explains these additives make the bread extremely soft and extend shelf life.
INSIGHT

Regulatory Loophole Keeps Additives In Use

  • The US system often treats long-used additives as 'generally recognized as safe' without rigorous testing.
  • Companies historically self-declare safety and the FDA rarely prioritizes re-evaluation.
INSIGHT

Europe’s Precaution vs US 'Use First' Approach

  • Europe follows a precautionary approach: if safety isn't proven, use is restricted or labeled.
  • The US attitude tends to be 'use it until proven harmful', creating divergent standards.
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