This is some text inside of a div block.

min read

Superpower Banned Health Ingredients

Last Updated:

Sep 26, 2024

Table of contents

Supplements and health products are not heavily regulated, so we’ve created our own criteria for what’s considered safe to put in your body.

Below you’ll find a NO list with over 500 common toxic supplement additives, chemicals, preservatives, flavors, colors and other harmful ingredients. We also screen all personal care and clean home products for harmful parabens, phthalates, oxybenzones, and other endocrine disrupting chemicals. We’ve built our list from some of the most reputable sources in the health industry including EWG, The Clean Label Project, and Endocrinedisruption.org.

Superpower does the research, so you don’t have to.

Region

Ingredients

Supporting Research

Most commonly found

Bacillus coagulans ProDURA UABc-20

A probiotic strain used in food supplements. Generally considered safe.

Probiotic strain used in dietary supplements and fermented foods

Supporting research

Propane-1,2-diol esters of fatty acids

Emulsifiers used in food products. Generally considered safe.

Used as emulsifiers and stabilizers in foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Caprocaprylobehenin

An emulsifier used in food products. Can trigger skin irritation and allergic reactions.

Used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals as an emollient and emulsifier

Supporting research

Haloacetic acids (HAA9)

Byproducts of water disinfection. Potential health risks. Potential carcinogen.

Group of contaminants monitored in drinking water

Supporting research

Succistearin

An emulsifier used in food products. Laxative in high doses.

Used in food and pharmaceuticals

Supporting research

Uranium

A heavy metal that is toxic to humans. Potential carcinogen.

Toxic element monitored in drinking water and environmental settings

Supporting research

Total trihalomethanes (TTHMS)

Byproducts of water disinfection. Potential health risks. Potential carcinogen.

By-products of chlorine disinfection in drinking water monitored for safety

Supporting research

Haloacetic acids (HAA5)

Byproducts of water disinfection. Potential health risks. Potential carcinogen.

By-products of water disinfection monitored for safety in drinking water

Supporting research

Orange B

An artificial orange food dye. Banned in many countries due to potential carcinogenicity.

Synthetic orange dye used in limited food and cosmetic applications

Supporting research

Nitrate and nitrite

Preservatives used in food. Linked to the formation of nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.

Preservatives and color fixatives in processed meats

Supporting research

Nitrate

A naturally occurring compound found in food and water. Can be converted to nitrite, which is linked to cancer.

Preservative in processed meats; also found in vegetables and drinking water

Supporting research

Sudan 1

An artificial red dye. Banned in many countries due to carcinogenicity.

Synthetic dye used in some foods

Supporting research

Bromate

A chemical used in the production of flour. Banned in many countries due to carcinogenicity.

Used as a flour improver

Supporting research

Chromium (hexavalent)

A heavy metal that is toxic to humans. Potential carcinogen.

Toxic element not used in food; regulated due to health risks

Supporting research

Arsenic

A heavy metal that is toxic to humans. Potential carcinogen.

Toxic element regulated in food and water to prevent contamination

Supporting research

Yellow 3 & 4

Artificial yellow food dyes. May cause allergic reactions and heart damage at high dosages.

Synthetic yellow dyes used in foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Yellow 1 & 2

Artificial yellow food dyes. May cause allergic reactions and intestinal lesions at high dosages.

Synthetic yellow dyes used in foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Violet 1

An artificial violet food dye. Banned in many countries due to potential carcinogenicity.

Synthetic purple dye used in cosmetics and some foods

Supporting research

Thiourea

A chemical used in various industrial processes. Can be toxic if ingested or inhaled. Potential carcinogen.

Used in industrial applications; not typically used in food

Supporting research

Styrene

A chemical used in the production of plastics. Can be toxic if inhaled or ingested. Potential carcinogen.

Used in the production of plastics and resins; not for direct food use

Supporting research

Safrole

A compound found in sassafras oil. Potential carcinogen.

Flavoring agent

Supporting research

Red 2

An artificial red food dye. Banned in many countries due to potential carcinogenicity.

Synthetic red dye used in foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Red 1

An artificial red food dye. Banned in many countries due to potential carcinogenicity.

Synthetic red dye used in some foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA)

An antioxidant found in some plants. May cause digestive upset and damage to kidney.

Antioxidant used in some foods and industrial applications

Supporting research

Pyridine

A chemical used in various industrial processes. Can be toxic if ingested or inhaled. Potential carcinogen

Used in industrial processes and as a solvent

Supporting research

Pulegone

A compound found in some essential oils. Can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. Potential carcinogen.

Flavoring agent found in mint oils and some other flavors; restricted in food use

Supporting research

Polyoxyethylene-8-stearate (Myrj 45)

An emulsifier used in various products. Can cause skin irritation. High levels caused bladder stones and tumors

Emulsifier used in food and pharmaceutical products

Supporting research

Orange 2

An artificial orange food dye. Banned in many countries due to potential carcinogenicity.

Synthetic orange dye used in foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Oil of calamus

An essential oil derived from the calamus plant. Contains compounds that are potentially harmful. Linked to intestinal cancer.

Flavoring agent used in some foods and beverages

Supporting research

Orange 1

An artificial orange food dye. Banned in many countries due to potential carcinogenicity.

Synthetic orange dye used in foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Thiodipropionic acid

An antioxidant used as a food preservative with restricted use. May cause liver damage in high doses.

Antioxidant used in fats and oils to prevent rancidity

Supporting research

Myrcene

A natural terpene found in many plants. Potential skin irritant. Potential carcinogen.

Terpene used in fragrances and flavorings; found in cannabis

Supporting research

Monochloroacetic acid

A chemical used in various industrial processes. Can be toxic if ingested or inhaled.

Used in industrial applications

Supporting research

Green 2

An artificial green food dye. Banned in many countries due to potential carcinogenicity.

Synthetic green dye used in some foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Green 1

An artificial green food dye. Banned in many countries due to potential carcinogenicity.

Synthetic green dye used in foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Eugenyl methyl ether (methyl eugenol)

A flavoring agent found in some essential oils. Potential carcinogen.

Flavoring agent used in foods and fragrances; can be a potential carcinogen

Supporting research

Ethylene glycol

A toxic substance used as antifreeze. Can be fatal if ingested. Known to cause damage to the kidney.

Used in antifreeze and industrial applications

Supporting research

Ethyl acrylate

A chemical used in the production of acrylic polymers. Can cause skin and eye irritation. Potential carcinogen.

Used in industrial processes

Supporting research

Diethyl pyrocarbonate (DEPC)

A chemical used to sterilize laboratory equipment. Highly toxic. When combined with ammonia forms urethane, a carcinogen.

Used in laboratories for deactivating enzymes

Supporting research

Dulcin (p-ethoxy-phenylurea)

An artificial sweetener banned due to potential carcinogenicity.

Artificial sweetener

Supporting research

Butter yellow

An artificial yellow dye banned due to carcinogenicity.

Synthetic dye formerly used in margarine and other foods

Supporting research

Cyclamate

An artificial sweetener banned in many countries due to potential carcinogenicity.

Artificial sweetener

Supporting research

Coumarin

A flavoring agent found in some plants. Can cause liver damage.

Flavoring agent used in some foods and fragrances

Supporting research

Cobalt salts

Mineral salts used as food additives. Can have toxic heart effects in high doses.

Used in pigments and as a dietary supplement (limited use)

Supporting research

Cinnamyl anthranilate

A flavoring agent used in perfumes and foods. Potential skin irritant and potential carcinogenic.

Fragrance ingredient in perfumes and flavoring in some foods

Supporting research

Benzophenone

A chemical used in sunscreens and other products. Potential endocrine disruptor and potentical carcinogenic.

Used as a UV filter in cosmetics and sunscreens

Supporting research

Sulfur dioxide

A preservative used in wine, mead, and cider. Can trigger asthmatic reactions in sensitive people.

Preservative and antioxidant used in dried fruits / wines

Supporting research

Sodium saccharin

An artificial sweetener. Lingering controversy over potential carcinogenicity

Artificial sweetener used in sugar-free products

Supporting research

Sucrose ester

An emulsifier used in various food products with limited approved uses. Insufficient toxicology data.

Emulsifier and stabilizer in foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Soy leghemoglobin

A plant-based hemoglobin used as a food colorant. Potential allergen for people with soy allergies. Insufficient safety data.

Plant-based colorant used in meat substitutes (e.g.Impossible Burger)

Supporting research

Sodium metabisulfite (okay in wine, mead, cider)

A preservative used in wine, mead, and cider. Can cause allergic reactions in people with asthma.

Preservative and antioxidant in wines, dried fruits

Supporting research

Sodium cyclamate

An artificial sweetener banned in many countries due to potential carcinogenicity.

Sweetener used in some countries

Supporting research

Sodium aluminum sulfate

A food additive used as a leavening agent. Potential health risks including neurotoxicity and skeletal concerns when consumed in large quantities.

Used in baking powders and as a food additive

Supporting research

Sodium acid sulfate

A food additive used as a drying agent. Can cause skin irritation and some gastrointestinal side effects.

pH adjuster and stabilizer in food and cosmetics

Supporting research

Salatrim

A synthetic fat substitute. Large amounts (30g or more per day) increase the risk of side effects such as stomach cramps and nausea.

Fat replacer in low-fat and reduced-calorie foods

Supporting research

Pyridine (synthetic)

A chemical used in various industrial processes. Can be toxic if ingested or inhaled. Not permitted as a direct food additive. Linked to neurological issues.

Used as a solvent and in the synthesis of various chemicals

Supporting research

Potassium alum

A food additive and astringent. Can cause digestive upset and other health issues when consumed in large quantities. No longer approved as food additive in US and EU due to toxicity concerns.

Used in pickling, baking powder

Supporting research

Propylene oxide

A chemical used in various industrial processes. Banned in many countries due to carcinogenic risk.

Used in the production of propylene glycol and as a fumigant in some food processes

Supporting research

Propyl gallate

An antioxidant used as a food preservative. May cause liver damage in high doses.

Antioxidant used in fats, oils

Supporting research

Potassium nitrite

Linked to the formation of nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic. Highest risk to children.

Preservative and color fixative in processed meats

Supporting research

Potassium bromate

A flour improver and bleaching agent. Banned in many countries due to its carcinogenicity.

Flour improver and dough conditioner, used in bread making

Supporting research

Partially hydrogenated oils

Oils that have undergone a hydrogenation process but still contain some trans fats. Linked to heart disease. Being phased out in many countries.

Used in processed foods to improve texture and shelf life; source of trans fats

Supporting research

Octyl gallate

An antioxidant used as a food preservative. May cause liver damage in high doses. Has caused stomach lesions at very high doses in animals. Moderation recommended until more is known.

Antioxidant used in fats and oils to prevent rancidity

Supporting research

Iron oxide

A food coloring used to add color to products. Can temporarily stain the mouth, lips, and stool. Constipation is possible with excessive doses.

Pigment used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals

Supporting research

Hydrogenated oils

Oils that have been processed to make them solid at room temperature. Contain trans fats, which are linked to heart disease. Being phased out and banned in some areas.

Used in margarine and processed foods to improve texture and shelf life

Supporting research

Foie gras

The fatty liver of a duck or goose. High in cholesterol and saturated fat. Ethical concerns due to force-feeding of animals. Banned in some places due to concerns about animal cruelty.

Luxury food product made from the liver of fattened ducks or geese

Supporting research

Beta-cyclodextrin

A cyclic oligosaccharide used as a food additive. Not well absorbed so large amounts may have laxative effect or bloating.

Used as a stabilizer and flavor enhancer in foods and pharmaceuticals

Supporting research

Acetylated esters of mono- and diglycerides

Emulsifiers used in various food products. Some concerns regarding their impact on gut health and digestive function.

Emulsifiers used in baked goods and processed foods

Supporting research

Hijiki

A type of seaweed often used in Asian cuisine. May contain high levels of iodine and arsenic.

Edible seaweed used in Japanese cuisine

Supporting research

Sodium propionate

A preservative commonly used in baked goods and other foods. Chronic exposure to sodium propionate can induce depressive symptoms.

Preservative in baked goods inhibits mold and bacterial growth

Supporting research

Insect flour

A protein-rich ingredient made from insects. Potential allergen for people with shellfish allergies. Long term safety unknown.

Protein source in animal feed and some novel human foods

Supporting research

Nitrites (synthetic)

Preservatives used in cured meats. Linked to the formation of nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.

Preservatives in processed meats

Supporting research

Natamycin (okay in cheese-rind wax)

An antifungal agent used to preserve cheese. Can cause reactions if ingested in large amounts.

Antifungal agent used in cheese-rind wax to prevent mold growth

Supporting research

Hawaiian black salt

May contain high levels of sodium. The charcoal may interfere with medications if over-consumed

Specialty salt used for seasoning and garnishing

Supporting research

Sodium diacetate

Can cause allergic reactions, potential risks of irritation, especially eye.

Preservative and flavoring agent often used in baked goods and snack foods

Supporting research

Benzyl benzoate

Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. When combined with vitamin C, benzoates can form benzene, a potential carcinogen.

Used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals as a preservative

Supporting research

Bacillus coagulans Unique IS-2

Can cause mild GI symptoms

Probiotic strain used in dietary supplements and fermented products

Supporting research

Sodium benzoate

Can cause allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children. When combined with vitamin C, benzoates can form benzene, a potential carcinogen.

Preservative in acidic foods and beverages prevents spoilage and bacterial growth

Supporting research

Diacetyl (synthetic)

A flavoring agent linked to respiratory diseases, including "popcorn lung," when inhaled in high concentrations or long periods.

Flavoring agent often used in butter-flavored products

Supporting research

Propylene glycol esters of fatty acids

May cause digestive upset in some individuals. There are concerns over exposure to heavy metals and irritation from toxicity.

Emulsifiers and stabilizers in foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Disodium dihydrogen EDTA

A preservative and chelating agent used in various products. Generally considered safe when used in low concentrations, but may interfere with mineral absorption in high doses. There are concerns about trace heavy metal residues.

Chelating agent in foods and cosmetics helps preserve color and flavor

Supporting research

Erythrosine

An artificial red dye linked to hyperactivity in children and potential thyroid problems.

Synthetic red dye used in foodscosmetics

Supporting research

Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DSS)

An emulsifier commonly used in food products. Can cause digestive upset, diarrhea, stomach cramps and skin irritation.

Emulsifier and surfactant in food and pharmaceuticals

Supporting research

Cochineal

Derived from crushed insects, these colorants may cause allergic reactions in people with allergies to shellfish, dust mites, or cockroaches.

Natural red dye derived from cochineal insectsused in foods and cosmetics

Supporting research

Certified colors

Linked to hyperactivity in children, other effects to sensitive individuals and potential allergic reactions.

Food and drug coloringdyes approved by regulatory agencies

Supporting research

Calcium benzoate

May cause digestive upset in some individuals. When combined with vitamin C, benzoates can form benzene, a potential carcinogen.

Preservative in foods and beverages

Supporting research

Benzyl alcohol

Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. In larger doses, it can be toxic and lead to respiratory failure.

Solvent in cosmetics and pharmaceuticalspreservative in some foods

Supporting research

myrcene (synthetic)

Used as a fruity flavoring compound. No evidence of toxicity, but synthetic form has unclear GRAS status.

Flavoring agent (citrus, hops)

Supporting research

Agene (nitrogen trichloride)

Dogs that ate bread made from treated flour suffered epileptic-like fits; the toxic agent was methionine sulfoxime.

Banned flour bleaching agent

Supporting research

Benzoic acid

Can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and digestive upset in some individuals. When combined with vitamin C, benzoates can form benzene, a potential carcinogen.

Preservative in food and beveragesantifungal agent in cosmetics

Supporting research

Azodicarbonamide

Linked to respiratory issues and asthma. There are concerns that it may increase exposure to carcinogens. Banned in many countries.

Bread dough conditionerflour bleaching agent

Supporting research

Red 4

High levels damaged adrenal cortex of dog; still allowed in externally applied drugs and cosmetics.

Food Products:Yogurts: Many strawberry, raspberry, and cherry-flavored yogurts.Confectionery: Red candies, gummy bears, and other sweets.Beverages: Some fruit juices, alcoholic beverages like Campari, and sodas.Desserts: Ice creams, gelato, and pastries.Cosmetics:Lipsticks and Lip Glosses: Many red and pink shades.Blushes and Eyeshadows: Particularly those with red or pink tones.Nail Polishes: Red and pink varieties.Pharmaceuticals:Syrups and Liquid Medications: Some cough syrups and liquid medications.Coated Pills: Certain red-colored pills and capsules.

Supporting research

Red 32

Damages internal organs, may be a weak carcinogen; continues to be used under name Citrus Red 2 only to color oranges (2 ppm)

Cosmetics:Lipsticks and Lip Glosses: Specifically those containing synthetic red dyes.Blushes and Eyeshadows: Cosmetic products requiring intense red pigmentation.Nail Polishes: Red and pink nail polishes often use synthetic dyes for colorYogurt:Dannon Fruit on the Bottom Strawberry YogurtYoplait Strawberry YogurtConfectionery:Skittles (various red-colored flavors)Haribo Goldbears (red gummy bears)Cosmetics:MAC Lipstick in "Ruby Woo" (contains carmine)NARS Blush in "Orgasm" (may contain carmine)Pharmaceuticals:Benadryl Allergy Liquid (often contains Red 40, but some formulations may use other red dyes)Advil Liquid Gels (coated with synthetic red dyes)

Supporting research

vanillin (synthetic)

Unfortunately, there is no nutrient, vitamin, mineral, or other health benefits in synthetic vanillin and studies show that consuming synthetic vanillin may trigger allergic reactions, digestive disorders, and migraine headaches.

Flavoring agent (imitation vanilla)

Supporting research

sucralose

Some studies have shown that sucralose can change your gut microbiome by lowering the number of good bacteria by half. Research done on animals shows that sucralose can also increase inflammation in the body. Over time, inflammation can lead to problems like obesity and diabetes.

Artificial sweetener

Supporting research

neotame

In one study, neotame consumption largely reduced the abundance of Firmicutes, which may result in a lowered absorbing efficiency of fatty acids and lipids and increased levels of them in feces.

Artificial sweetener

Supporting research

sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate

Sodium stearoyl lactylate is generally used as safe ingredient, the side effects may may cause slight skin or eye irritation, and if inhaled in its pure form, it may be slightly irritating to the respiratory tract.

Emulsifier and dough conditioner in baked goods

Supporting research

monopotassium glutamate

The toxic effects of MSG include CNS disorder, obesity, disruptions in adipose tissue physiology, hepatic damage, CRS and reproductive malfunctions.

Flavor enhancer (controversial, may cause MSG sensitivity)

Supporting research

methylparaben

Some parabens have been associated with hormone disruption and have been restricted in certain products.

Preservative in some cosmetics and personal care products

Supporting research

mechanically separated meat

Produced by forcing bone remnants to release small meat scraps. May have higher bacteria loads.

Lean meat product from processed meat trimmings

Supporting research

See more

These sources are valuable for evaluating the safety and non-toxicity of products, providing consumers with reliable information to make informed choices.

Environmental Working Group (EWG)

EWG is known for providing tools and resources to make better choices regarding toxic-free, safe products in various categories, including household and consumer products.

The Well-be Non Product Database

‍This database features over 2000 curated non-toxic products vetted by third-party unbiased organizations like Environmental Working Group, Think Dirty, MadeSafe, GreenGuard, ConsumerLab, NSF, and more.

Think Dirty App

‍This app allows users to check for chemicals in products by entering the product name or scanning the barcode. It provides a toxicity rating and suggests safe and cleaner alternatives.

MadeSafe

This is a certification organization that verifies products are free from harmful chemicals. Products that meet MadeSafe's rigorous standards are certified as non-toxic.

ConsumerLab

This is an independent testing organization that conducts rigorous testing to assess factors such as dosage, phytonutrient levels, and contaminant levels to evaluate the quality and efficacy of various products, including supplements, vitamins, and other health and wellness products.

NSF Supplement Vitamin Certification

The NSF (National Science Foundation) offers certification programs for supplements and vitamins providing consumers with assurance of quality and reliability.. Products that meet NSF's standards are certified to be safe, effective, and contain the claimed ingredients in the labeled amounts.

Clean Label Project

‍The Clean Label Project conducts independent testing of supplements and other products, evaluating purity, potency, and the absence of harmful contaminants.