In summer, in hot weather, we, without a second thought, drink a lot of non-alcoholic soft carbonated drinks. But we never pay attention to their composition. But he, at times, hides the most terrible things.
Take, for example, sodium benzoate (E211). This is a widely used preservative in the food industry. Naturally, it is approved by all relevant authorities in different countries.
And, nevertheless, it is he who can cause such ailments as cirrhosis and Parkinson's disease. Sheffield scientist Peter Piper came to this conclusion after conducting a series of experiments in his laboratory.
Benzoate sodium has repeatedly been a matter of concern, but it was a question of its carcinogenic effect. When sodium benzoate is combined with vitamin C in soft drinks, benzene, a carcinogen, is formed. In general, E211 is considered a safe additive.
Peter Piper, professor of molecular biology and biotechnology, tested the effect of sodium benzoate on living yeast cells. He discovered that this compound damages an important region of DNA in the mitochondria. If you damage them in large numbers - the cell will start to malfunction. With damage to this part of the DNA is associated a lot of diseases - Parkinson's disease and a number of neurodegenerative diseases, and it is also related to the aging processes.
According to the scientist, the norms of the content of preservative E211 in food products should be revised, having conducted more studies. Peter is especially worried about children who consume carbonated drinks in large quantities.
Daniel Berkovsky stylemania.ru