/oss/taxonomy/term/1095/all en /oss/article/health-nutrition/mac-and-cheese-scare <p>The media has jumped with vigour on a press release from an activist organization (KleanUpKraft) entitled “Testing Finds Industrial Chemical Phthalates in Cheese.” Phthalates are indeed “industrial chemicals” that have various applications. Of course just because they have use in a non-food application does not mean they present a risk if found in food. This is the “Food Babe Fallacy.” Ethanol, for example, is a widely used solvent in the chemical industry and is also added to gasoline, yet we happily drink it.</p> Fri, 14 Jul 2017 16:24:24 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 2574 at /oss /oss/article/food-health-news-toxicity/crafty-kraft <p>Kraft processed cheese singles, at least the full fat version, is not the same anymore. You won’t notice any change in taste though because the only difference will be a substitution of one preservative for another. Sorbic acid is out, natamycin is in. Why? Not because it is a more effective preservative. Both inhibit the growth of moulds, yeast and fungi. But since it is isolated from a soil bacterium, natamycin can be promoted as a “natural” preservative. And that sells!</p> Wed, 12 Feb 2014 05:47:20 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 2096 at /oss