Fast food is often the go-to option when you need something quick, convenient, and tasty. However, beneath the delicious exterior, some ingredients used in these products might make you cringe. Here are nine lesser-known ingredients that can be found in…
Fast food is often the go-to option when you need something quick, convenient, and tasty. However, beneath the delicious exterior, some ingredients used in these products might make you cringe.
Here are nine lesser-known ingredients that can be found in various fast foods. Some are even banned from use in other countries:
9. Ammonium Sulfate

A salt compound, ammonium sulfate is commonly used as a fertilizer and also in the bread-making process for some fast food chains. It helps yeast get a head start and acts as a food source for it. Though it’s generally recognized as safe in small amounts, the idea of eating a compound that’s also used as a fertilizer might be off-putting for some.
8. Azodicarbonamide

Azodicarbonamide is a chemical compound that’s used as a flour bleaching agent and dough conditioner in bread and pastries. It helps produce a lot of bread rapidly and keeps it soft. Interestingly, the same compound is also used in the production of certain plastics like yoga mats and synthetic leather.
It’s also banned in the UK and other parts of the world which makes it’s usage in the United States particularly disconcerting.
7. Propylene Glycol

This synthetic liquid substance absorbs water and maintains moisture. It’s commonly used in food products, including fast food items, to keep them moist and fresh. Beyond food, propylene glycol is also used in antifreeze, plastic, and as a major ingredient in electronic cigarette liquid.
6. Silicon Dioxide

Also known as silica, silicon dioxide is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping in food items, such as salts, soups, and coffee creamer. Silicon dioxide is primarily sand, making this another potentially unappetizing ingredient lurking in fast food.
5. Cellulose

Cellulose is an organic compound and a common structural component in plants. It’s often used in food preparation as an emulsifier, thickening agent, and to replace fat and boost fiber content. Essentially, cellulose is wood pulp or cotton that has been treated to be edible.
4. Sodium Phosphate

Sodium phosphate is a term for a variety of salts used in processed food to control pH and act as an emulsifier. This ingredient can also be found in cleaning products and detergents. In food, it helps retain moisture, especially in meats, keeping them juicy and tender.
3. High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)

HFCS is a sweetener made from cornstarch and found in a multitude of fast food items and beverages due to its cost-effectiveness. Regular consumption of HFCS has been linked to obesity and diabetes.
2. Dimethylpolysiloxane

This is a type of silicone used as an anti-foaming agent in deep-frying. While it keeps oil from splattering, it’s also used in caulks, adhesives, aquarium sealants, and even Silly Putty.
1. Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide is used as a food coloring to make foods look whiter or brighter. It’s found in a wide variety of products, including sunscreen and paint. In fast food, it can be found in salad dressings, coffee creamers, and icing.
While these ingredients might make you think twice about your fast food choices, it’s important to note that their inclusion in food products is regulated by food safety authorities.
Nonetheless, raising awareness of what we consume is a step toward making healthier choices. After all, a balanced diet relies more on whole foods than on processed ones.