This petroleum derivative is hidden in food products and can be harmful to health.

A solvent, derived from petroleum, is found in some food products and it is not even indicated on the labels.

We must always be careful about what we eat and carefully read the labels of the products we buy. However, what can we do when not everything is indicated? ? According to an investigation revealed by Libération, a risky solvent derived from petroleum, is said to be hidden in certain food products and, since it is considered a “processing aid” and not an ingredient, it is not indicated on labels. This revelation is based on a study by Italian researcher Christian Cravotto, who recently defended his thesis in France.

This is hexane, “a mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum”. It is used in the furniture, textile and beauty industries, but also in the food industry. It is also found in the composition of certain fuels. This colorless liquid is used to extract vegetable oil from rapeseed, sunflower or soya seeds. Its use is authorized in the European Union as long as it does not exceed the limits set by type of product.

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“Several studies have demonstrated the presence of its toxic metabolite, 2,5-HD, in the urine not only of workers exposed professionally but also of the general population,” assured Christian Cravotto. This solvent could however be toxic for health, according to the specialist. In case of high exposure, it could cause weakness or even muscular paralysis. According to the researcher, there are also risks for the female and male reproductive systems, leading to fertility problems. As a neurotoxic substance, it could also promote diseases such as Alzheimer's. Hexane “can be fatal if swallowed and enters the respiratory tract,” even the National Institute for Research and Safety specifies. However, further research is needed to know its toxicity. real when ingested.

Food products that may contain hexane include oils, infant formula, margarine, cocoa butter, vegetable flours and soy protein products. Also used in livestock feed, it can be found as a residue in meat or eggs.

Since the presence of hexane is not indicated on product labels, it is difficult to protect yourself against it. Loiret MP Richard Ramos has therefore called for to implement a tax on producers and sellers of hexane and to look into the contamination of the French population, fearing a “public health scandal”.  Experts from the European Food Safety Authority have also recently demanded, in a report. "a reassessment of the safety of hexane.