Meet Azodicarbonamide (E927.), the famous rubber/bead chemical that made headlines. Popular blogger Food Babe, created a petition that not only changed how Subway made its bread; it got the attention of New York Senator, Chuck Schumer. But, do we really know E927? Here’s what we do know.
Biography
Azo is a food additive used mostly in breads to make the bread fluffy. The FDA claims that Azodicarbonamide can be safely used at levels up to 45 parts per million as a dough conditioner, aging, and bleaching ingredient. In addition to making food fluffy, Azo also extends the shelf life of a product.
How To Avoid
Popular fast food chains like McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, Arby’s, and Jack n’The Box use her in their bread products. From buns, to French toast, Bagels to croutons; you can avoid her by frequenting restaurants that don’t mass produce their breads in a factory.
Frequent Hangouts
Cereal, nut mixes, gum, butter, meat, dehydrated potatoes, beer, Breads, frozen dinners, boxed pasta mixes, packaged baked goods, imitation leather and plastic products
Why She’s Dangerous
According to the World Health Organization, E927 can cau
se eye/nose irritation and asthmatic symptoms. In some cases skin sensitization reactions have been reported.
Fun Fact
She is banned in Europe and Australia, and if you use her in Singapore you’ll get up to 15 years in prison and be penalized nearly half a million dollars
For more information on chemicals of concern, click here.