You may not see the phrase “possible carcinogen” on a food label, but that doesn’t mean tumour fuel isn’t hiding inside: A common food additive may raise your cancer risk, a study from Sweden found. Men with the highest blood levels of phosphates compounds occurring naturally in some foods and added as preservatives to others—had a higher risk of developing several types of cancer than men with lower levels. That’s because in excess, phosphates may amplify a cell-signaling pathway that helps cancerous cells develop, says study author Mieke Van Hemelrijck PhD. Scan ingredient lists for added phosphates, which can lurk in everything from canned fruits to cereals.
A DEADLY PHOS-FATE
You may not see the phrase “possible carcinogen” on a food label, but that doesn’t mean tumour fuel isn’t hiding inside: A common food additive may raise your cancer risk, a study from Sweden found. Men with the highest blood levels of phosphates compounds occurring naturally in some foods and added as preservatives to others—had a higher risk of developing several types of cancer than men with lower levels. That’s because in excess, phosphates may amplify a cell-signaling pathway that helps cancerous cells develop, says study author Mieke Van Hemelrijck PhD. Scan ingredient lists for added phosphates, which can lurk in everything from canned fruits to cereals.
