An ongoing review by the WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives confirmed sulphur dioxide could destroy vitamin B1, so having a soft drink with your meal could wipe out its vitamin B1 content. The same review found that animal and lab tests revealed that consuming E220 could increase the amount of calcium lost by the body -- raising your risk of the bone-thinning condition osteoporosis -- and could cause DNA damage.
E124 -- ponceau 4R: This red food coloring is often found in soft drinks, sweets and puddings and is one of the additives currently being investigated for triggering hyperactivity. E124 has been banned in the US and Norway as a cancer-causing chemical.
A study published in Toxicological Sciences in 2001 found there was a connection between the coloring and tumors in animals, but called for more conclusive research to be carried out.
A review of food additives carried out by the FSA's committee on toxicity last year found ponceau 4R could have an effect on brain development in young children.
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