Subway: Chemical Found In Yoga Mats To Be Removed From Bread

Subway announced that it will be removing the chemical azodicarbonamide from its breads in an effort to improve the overall healthy image of the sandwich chain as well as the quality of their products.

The chemical, which is found in yoga mats and soles of shoes is used to improve elasticity. It has been used by Subway for many years, but now, pressure from various watchdog organizations and customers seems to have worked.

Subway said in a statement about the new move:

“We are already in the process of removing azodicarbonamide as part of our bread improvement efforts despite the fact that it is (a) USDA and FDA approved ingredient. Complete conversion to have this product out of the bread will be done soon.”

One of the products which comes from the original chemical, Urethane, a known carcinogen, poses a “small risk to humans” according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI).

Advocates from CSPI said that companies need to start removing dangerous food additives: “We urge the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to consider whether the Delaney amendment, which bars the use of food additives that cause cancer in humans or animals, requires the agency to bar its use,” they said.

The American Bakers Association said that there are alternative materials which could be used by bakers instead of azodicarbonamide:

“Past FDA sampling results have indicated appropriate low level use in products. As a dough conditioner it has a volume/texture effect on the finished loaf. It is a functional ingredient that improves the quality of bread and any substitutes are likely not to work as well as ADA (azodicarbonamide).”

The World Health Organization has also raised its concerns about the use of additives. such as the chemical used by Subway. They advise that due to the fact that the risks associated with the chemical are unclear: “The level of risk is uncertain; hence, exposure levels should be reduced as much as possible.”