On The HVP Recall

Yesterday one of the largest producers of hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP) in the U.S., Basic Food Flavors Inc., was the subject of an FDA consumer safety warning announcement and subsequent product recalls ensued (apparently the HVP from this company was contaminated with salmonella). Overall, this recall has the potential to be the largest ever in U.S. history by number of products (that's how much stuff has HVP in it--the recall even included some brands of potato chips).

But whether contaminated with bacteria or not, this stuff should be avoided. In an article entitled "Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein recall leaves food consumers wondering: What is this stuff?" Natural News lays out how HVP, "texturized vegetable protein" (TVP) and "yeast extract" are often loaded with dangerous chemicals including MSG (mono-sodium glutamate) -- a known carcinogen and neurotoxin.

Vegetarians are at high risk of exposure to the dangers associated with HVP, TVP, etc. because these ingredients are in pretty much all of the "natural foods" on the market, especially 'veggie burgers.' We all know that as a general rule, processed and packaged foods just aren't good. However, if you must eat such foods, be sure to AVOID HVP, TVP, and yeast extract. Read all labels and don't order foods at "veggie" spots without knowing exactly what ingredients are used in them.

More articles about the recall:

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-03-11/food-recalls-from-salmonella-may-increase-to-10-000-products.html

http://www.montrealgazette.com/health/recall+poses+safety+questions/2668501/story.html

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