Until about 1902, food manufacturers used chemicals like formaldehyde, borax, and copper sulfate as preservatives to keep food looking fresh. These chemicals, though toxic, had no regulations or labeling requirements.
Dr. Harvey W. Wiley, a chemist, believed these chemicals were dangerous and organized experiments to prove it. He formed the "Poison Squad," a group of volunteers from the Department of Agriculture who consumed food laced with these chemicals over six months. They experienced symptoms of acute poisoning, which included nausea, vomiting, and kidney damage.
The media caught wind of Wiley’s experiments, and public outcry led to the first food regulations in 1906. This movement ultimately resulted in the creation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Dr. Wiley's work significantly improved food safety by eliminating harmful substances like borax from our food.
Vocabulary words:
• Formaldehyde: A strong-smelling chemical used to preserve things, but harmful if eaten.
• Borax: A chemical used in cleaning products, also harmful if consumed.
• Copper sulfate: A chemical used to kill pests, dangerous to humans if ingested.
• Regulations: Rules made by authorities to control certain actions.
• Monitoring: Regularly checking something to make sure it is done correctly.
• Chemist: A scientist who studies chemicals and their reactions.
• Volunteers: People who do something willingly without being paid.
• Acute poisoning: Severe and sudden illness caused by consuming harmful substances.
• Kidney damage: Harm caused to the kidneys, which can affect their function.
Source: Great Big Story