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In every kitchen hides a silent killer that can be much more dangerous than alcohol and cigarettes. What is it? Spices! Although spices are often considered harmless and commonly used in our recipes, they have a dark side that is not often talked about.
What is hidden in our spices?
Few people know that common spices can contain harmful components that can have serious impacts on our health. Spices can be contaminated with artificial colorings, preservatives and even genetically modified substances. But that is not all – during processing, packaging and storage, various contaminants can get into spices including insects, rodent fur and their droppings.
Toxic substances in spices
One of the biggest problems is the use of toxic substances such as ethylene oxide, which is used to sterilize spices. This chemical, as confirmed by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in 1994, is classified as a carcinogen. It can cause genetic mutations and chromosomal damage.
What are the health effects?
Ethylene oxide and other harmful substances in spices can have serious consequences for our health:
- Nervous system damage: It can cause depression, irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes, and, in the long term, damage the function of the brain and nervous system.
- Irritation: Long-term exposure can lead to irritation of the eyes, skin and mucous membranes.
How to protect yourself?
To minimize the risk, it is important to pay attention to which spices we use. Here are some tips on how to protect yourself:
- Buy organic spices: Prefer spices from organic farming that do not contain harmful additives, artificial colorings and preservatives.
- Check the quality: If possible, choose spices from reputable manufacturers and always check whether they have passed safety tests.
- Store properly: Keep spices in a dry, cool place to minimize the risk of contamination.
Spices are an essential part of our meals, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with their use. By carefully selecting quality products and following proper storage practices we can protect our health and enjoy flavor experiences without worry.
