Learn Glossary bleaching agent

Bromates

Level 4Significant concernsIn Winter's Dictionary

Bromates is a bleaching agent — Maturing additive and dough conditioner (calcium bromate); flour improver (potassium bromate)

What it does

Maturing additive and dough conditioner (calcium bromate); flour improver (potassium bromate)

Where you'll see it

Bromated flours, bromated whole-wheat flour, sugar

What the research says

Lethal dose uncertain but 2-4 oz of 2% solution causes serious poisoning in children. Death apparently due to kidney failure, but central nervous system problems reported. May cause skin eruptions.

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): the lethal dose is uncertain but 2 to 4 ounces of a 2 percent solution causes serious poisoning in children