nanderson2009’s Recent Comments

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  fear factor

  I am honestly tired of the media misinterpreting scientific data and presenting it to the public as demonstrated in this article.  I am a biochemist studying nutrition and am frustrated with what these authors have been able to get away with.  For example, the acrylamide levels which Amy reports are  biased.  All starchy foods which have been heated contain some levels of acrylamide.  Amy is correct in stating that fried french fries and chips contain acrylamide but fails to mention that baked potato chips, onion soup, and toasted bread contain even higher levels of the "harmful" chemical.  Amy's rant about nitrates are also one sided.  Hot dogs and other preserved meats do contain levels of nitrates which have been shown to be carcinogens. What Amy failed to mention is that the nitrates are put into these meats to protect us from harmful bacteria, such as botulism and tetanus, which can release toxins so potent that they can cause severe health problems and can even prove to be fatal. Lastly, organic produce can be just as harmful and in many cases are more detrimental to the environment.  The "organic" substances which organic farmers use to control pests have not been tested and are not under the same standards as the traditional pesticides.  Consumers still need to thoroughly wash their produce regardless.  I'm sure Amy had good intentions when writing this article.  The problem is that this article invokes unnecessary fear for parents.  Traditional produce is still safe to consume as long as it is washed properly and the chemicals above should not pose a problem if consumed in moderation.  I believe organic foods offer people a false sense of safety but proper preparation should still be taken.  On The road to disodium inosinate is paved with good intentions posted 1 year, 5 months ago 2 Responses