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ANTI-CAKING

Talc

What it is

Ground magnesium-silicate mineral — the talcum-powder material — used to keep powders free-flowing and polish candy and rice.

Why your biology objects

The mineral itself is inert, but it forms in the same geology as asbestos and can carry asbestiform fibres, which IARC classes as a Group 1 carcinogen. A cosmetic anti-caking job that brings a contamination question food never needed to raise.

Would your ancestors eat this?

Point your camera at any label and get the verdict in seconds. Coming to the App Store.

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