Dehydroacetic acid sources, health risks
Wednesday, October 25, 2017 by Michelle Simmons
http://www.naturalpedia.com/dehydroacetic-acid-sources-health-risks.html
Dehydroacetic acid is an organic compound that is classified as a pyrone derivative. It is an odorless, white powder. It is a fungicide and bactericide widely used as a preservative in cosmetics. It kills and prevents the growth of microorganisms that can cause products to decay. It is commonly found in personal care products, such as eye shadow, facial moisturizer, lotion, blush, anti-aging treatment, lip gloss, mascara, facial powder, cleanser, and exfoliant. Dehydroacetic acid is also used on squash and strawberries. The sodium salt, sodium dehydroacetate, is sometimes used as an alternative for dehydroacetic acid because it is more soluble in water. Sodium dehydroacetate is produced by the base-catalyzed dimerization of diketene.
Dehydroacetic acid has several other names such as DHA and 3-Acetyl-4-hydroxy-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2-one. It has a chemical formula of C8H8O4 and has an E number of E265.
Harmful effects that can be caused by dehydroacetic acid
Products used around the mouth and on the lips that contain dehydroacetic acid are classified as harmful by the European Union, according to EWG.org. However, the Food and Drug Association in the U.S. allows the ingredient to be used as an indirect food additive for use in adhesives. Dehydroacetic acid in large doses can impair kidney function, cause vomiting, ataxia, and convulsions, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Body systems harmed by dehydroacetic acid
There are a few body systems harmed by dehydroacetic acid. Dehydroacetic acid is harmful for the integumentary system, particularly the skin. When in contact, it can cause skin irritation. The chemical is also bad for the digestive system when ingested because it can irritate the stomach. Moreover, it is harmful for the respiratory system. It can be toxic and cause irritation in the respiratory tract when inhaled. Lastly, particles of dehydroacetic acid that come in contact in the eyes may cause eye irritation.
Where to learn more
Summary
Dehydroacetic acid is a fungicide and bactericide widely used as a preservative in cosmetics. It can be found in personal care products such as eye shadow, facial moisturizer, lotion, blush, anti-aging treatment, lip gloss, etc. In food, dehydroacetic acid is mainly used on squash and strawberries. Sodium dehydroacetate is sometimes used as an alternative for dehydroacetic acid because it is more soluble in water.
Dehydroacetic acid in large doses can cause vomiting, ataxia, and convulsions and can impair kidney function. This compound can also cause irritations in the skin, eyes, gastrointestinal tract, and respiratory tract.
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