Ingredient
Bromate
What is Bromate?
Bromate is a chemical compound often associated with potassium bromate and used in food processing, particularly in flour and water treatment. It forms during the ozonation of water and can also occur in some baked goods.
Bromate is primarily used as a flour improver and oxidizing agent, which helps to strengthen dough and improve bread rise. However, there are health concerns as it has been shown to be a potential carcinogen in animal studies. Some countries have restricted its use due to these concerns.
When you see bromate on a label, it's important to note that its presence is subject to regulation in certain countries, and product usage might be limited or banned in specific regions.
Commonly found in: baked goods, breads, water treatment
What to watch
- Bromate is considered a potential carcinogen based on animal studies.
- It has been restricted or banned in certain countries due to health concerns.
Benefits
- In bread making, bromate improves texture and volume.
The FDA encourages limiting the use of bromate and requires labeling when it is present in products.
Research shows bromate may pose cancer risks, though findings are primarily based on animal studies.
Bromate is not derived from animals and is generally considered vegan.
Scout's take
Bromate detected at 0.8 µg/L, above EWG's strict health guideline of 0.1 µg/L; below the EPA legal limit of 10 µg/L.
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