Advocates Call For Stronger Regulations On Food Additives

BOSTON (CBS) - Ever wonder why store bought ice creams are so smooth or how packaged cookies stay so fresh? It's often due to preservatives called emulsifiers, which are used by food manufacturers to keep foods chewy, soft, fluffy and creamy.

A new study in mice finds that these chemicals altered the healthy bacteria in the gut and lead to intestinal inflammation.

They also caused some mice to gain weight and increase their blood sugar levels. Further studies are needed in humans.

Consumer groups are calling for stronger regulations by the FDA on food additives in this country.