Although data is still scarce, it is known that there are a significant number of cases of allergy to food additives. This allergy is not a simple intolerance, but causes immune reactions that could be life-threatening.
Allergy to food additives is a problem that often goes unnoticed because it is confused with an intolerance to some food. The truth is that these are different phenomena, although they have a common origin and present similar symptoms.
In food intolerance, the digestive system becomes irritated because the person has difficulties to properly assimilate a food or food additive. In allergy to food additives and food in general, the immune system overreacts and can be life-threatening.
The general population pays more attention to food intolerances or allergies than to allergies to food additives. This is because the latter substances are present in most processed foods, but those who consume them are unaware of their harmful potential.
Food additives
Food additives are substances that are added to processed foods during their manufacture. They allow the food to be modified in terms of flavor, texture, color, aroma or shelf life, among others. These substances are added with the approval of the health authority and must appear on the product label.
An allergy to food additives occurs when the body identifies one of these substances as potentially dangerous. An immune reaction is then generated to attack this additive, with symptoms that can become very serious.
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