Brominated vegetable oil (E443) – an emulsifier, is a stabilizer, is used in food products to prevent ingredients from decomposition, as a foaming agent in products with high acidity and an anti-foaming agent in fats. Helps to maintain the viscosity and stable consistency of the products.
Brominated vegetable oil is made from soy or grain crops by the method of interaction with bromine. The main areas of use of E443 are the production of margarine, fat, cream, ice cream, juices and soft drinks, most often carbonated, especially with a citrus taste. The fact is that brominated vegetable oil has a slightly bitter taste and a characteristic aroma. Drinks, in the production of which E443 is used, are usually cloudy to the lumen.
It is believed that the effects of E443 on the human body are not yet fully understood, so it is premature to talk about categorical harm to health. But on the territory of our country, the use of brominated vegetable oil in the food industry is prohibited.
Scientists and doctors have identified the negative effects of excessive consumption of products containing E443 on human health. Memory impairment, nervous system depression, and skin damage are just a few known facts of the harmful effects of brominated vegetable oil.
Brominated vegetable oil is also used in fillers for stuffing upholstered furniture, in the production of children’s toys and as a fire retardant.