High-fructose corn syrup has been making almost as many headlines as Barack Obama recently, with numerous stories about its lack of nutritional value and its negative effects on people's health. Along with being high in sugar, a study published in Environmental Health by a former FDA scientist reported that in 2005, detectable levels of mercury were found in nine of 20 samples of commercial HFCS. Last week, the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP), published a study showing that nearly one in three of 55 brand-name foods contained mercury. The chemical was found most commonly in HFCS-containing dairy products, dressings and condiments.
The FDA was aware of the problem four years ago, but consumers were not informed, and no additional testing was ordered. This news is coming out just as consumers have learned that the peanut butter factory responsible for the salmonella outbreak has a history of health violations.
The Corn Refiners Association is disputing the Environmental Health report, saying it is based on outdated information and that the industry has been using mercury-free versions of the two re-agents mentioned in the study, hydrochloric acid and caustic soda, for several years.
HFCS is made in chlorine-alkali plants. The contamination occurs when mercury cells are used to produce caustic soda. Mercury is a toxin known to potentially damage organ systems including the heart, nervous and immune systems and has been targeted as a contributor in the rise in autism among our country's youth.
HFCS is found in almost every non-organic, processed food item on grocery stores' shelves and in nearly every food and drink item available on a fast food menu. Most products targeted toward children and teens are infused with it. Even so-called healthful products that seem free of HFCS, such as “wholegrain” breads, contain it.
Mercury contamination is avoidable. The IATP is calling for immediate changes by industry and the FDA to help stop mercury contamination of the food supply. Further, the IATP recommends that the four U.S. plants still using mercury cell technology phase out its use in the production of caustic soda. They are also asking manufacturers of HFCS and other foods to simply discontinue using mercury-grade ingredients.
As consumers, we can do our research and quit buying products known to contain HFCS and write the manufacturers to let them know we won’t buy their product until we know it is safe.
Source: BecauseAction.com
