Study Warns Widely Used Food Preservatives Linked to High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease

A large French cohort study of more than 112,000 adults found that higher intake of certain food preservatives was linked to increased risks of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

The associations were observed over seven to eight years of follow-up and were based on data from the NutriNet-Santé study.

Preservatives such as sodium nitrite and potassium sorbate were among those raising concern in processed foods.

Researchers say the findings warrant further review of food safety guidance and public health recommendations.