Modern Health Concerns and Testing Procedures for Sulfates

The news reports a lot sulfates. And if you read the back of your favorite cosmetics or cleaning bottles, you may become quite confused or conflicted when you see the word in the ingredients. There are many potentially dangerous substances, both manmade and natural, that we come into contact with on a daily basis… including sulfates. But just what are sulfates, where are they found, and what types of problems can they really cause?

What’s the Big Deal about Sulfates?
Sulfates are mineral components resulting in salts, or acid derivatives, containing sulfur. They’re not always problematic, and our bodies actually benefit from them to a degree. But over-consumption can cause serious problems. Sulfates can also serve as detergents which boost various products’ lathering power and/or act as emulsifiers. But broken down, they contain high levels of natural sulfuric acid. Some of the most common sulfates are copper sulfate, calcium sulfate (gypsum), magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt), barium sulfate, and one practically everyone has heard of – sodium laureth sulfate.

Natural sulfate salts are often found in soil and the decay of plants and animals. However, tanneries, mines, mills, and textile factories also release sulfates into the environment. Industrial waste, water, and runoff can cause released sulfates to enter natural water areas and thus contaminate the drinking supply. Most water sources contain levels of sulfates – usually anywhere from 1 ppm (parts per million) to 700 ppm.

Food rinsed in contaminated water or left out in industrial areas can also cause accidental ingestion of sulfates. As such, those living, walking, or working in an industrial area which releases sulfates into the environment may also inhale or ingest excessive amounts of the chemicals. The lower the ppm, the less problems will arise from the surrounding contaminants. Generally, under 200 ppm is considered acceptable. Anything over that is judged more by taste than count. Of course trouble may still arise, so it’s important to pay attention to your body.

What Are the Symptoms and Health Issues for Excessive Sulfate Absorption?
Any type of contaminant can cause health issues, and sulfates are no different there. The difference arises in the type of contaminant they happen to be – metal-based chemical salts as opposed to live pathogens. Still, specific health issues may arise if you’re ingesting or absorbing more than 500ppm of sulfates.

Consuming, breathing, or otherwise absorbing excessive amounts can lead to severe abdominal pain and diarrhea, dehydration, decrease in stomach acidity, and organ irritation. Some studies have linked sodium laureth sulfate to certain types of cancer, but the FDA still refuses to verify such claims. The fact is that sometimes sulfates cause health issues and sometimes they don’t. It all depends on your current age, health, living conditions, immunity, how you came into contact with the substance, the length of time/contact, etc.

So then why are sulfates still being used in industries? Because they’re cheap. Sulfates that are used as detergents are also extremely potent, which is why hair products containing such chemicals are known for destroying the condition of your hair. The sulfates strip the natural oils away from the hair follicles.

How Are Sulfates Tested for Problematic Concerns?
Generally, sulfates undergo a count test the substance is added to a diluted HCL solution. Barium salts are then added to check the solubility and verify the counts. However, sulfates are known for attracting iron-related bacteria (IRB). This creates a slime-based bacterial growth medium that destroys the product and leads to many more health issues. Microbiological testing can ensure the bacteria is contained before it gets to that point.

Anything we eat, drink, breathe, or apply to our skin can be contaminated with live pathogens. Pharmaceutical microbiology is responsible for testing those items, containing and counting the offensive growth, and returning the safe samples to the manufacturers. Specific microbiological instruments aid in rapid detection systems which allow confirmation of test results within a couple days time as opposed to weeks' worth of waiting time associated with previous testing methods.

Is microbiological testing required then if no bacteria growth is evident? Absolutely. Why? Because bacteria is not seen by the naked eye and it reproduces quickly. By the time consumers report the problem, containment may be impossible. That leaves your business marred by sick customers who no longer trust your company practices, and a poor professional reputation is very difficult to repair. Ensuring your products pass microbiology quality assurance standards saves everyone a lot of unnecessary trouble.

Have questions about sulfates?  Contact the experts at Biolumix today.

Biolumix
3928 Varsity Dr.
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone: (734) 984-3100
Fax: 734-222-1830
Email: info@mybiolumix.com
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