A chemical a Day

The chemicals below make up the remainder of the chemicals found in Foray48B being sprayed over Auckland, Northshore and Waitakere City's this week. A summary of all chemical components will follow....

Benzoic acid/sodium benzoate Effects:

· Anaphylactic reactions.

· Asthma, urticaria, rhinitis,

· Respiratory sensitivity in aspirin-induced asthma

· Irritant to skin and eyes – contact urticaria.

· Diarrhoea, muscle weakness, tremors, emaciation, degeneration of the liver.

· Toxicological data and risk assessment assumes ingestion, but studies indicate that there is no safe level for inhalation of this chemical.

Where Found:

· Preservative. Found in food: oils, ice creams, tinned mushrooms, chilli paste, imitation fruit, icings, sports supplementary foods, sauces, dressings, veggie and fruit pulp, preserved cherries.

· Food Code number = 210, 211

Polyacrylic acid (carbopol) Effects:

· Can cause contact dermatitis (particularly when occluded on the skin - e.g. continued wearing of contaminated clothing)

· Irritant to people with pre-existing skin and respiratory problems. Where Found:

· Not in food.

Sorbitol Effects:

· Irritant to eyes, respiratory system and skin.

· Flatulence, abdominal pain, diarrhoea.

Where found:

· Sweetener: diabetic products, low cal chutneys, fruit pulps, sweets, icings, noodles, pasta, breads, bakery goods, dried meat, sausage casings, fruit and veggie juices, wines, dairy-based desserts.

· Food Code number = 420.

Potassium sorbate Effects:

· Irritant to eyes, respiratory system and skin

· Hypersensitivity can occur.

Where found:

· Preservative: ice cream, tinned mushrooms, dried fruit.

· Food Code number = 202.

Hydrochloric acid Acidity regulator. Corrosive. Irritant. Food Code number = 507

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