Food contamination in the modern world is one of the main public health problems. The sources of contamination are diverse and include both chemical substances and microbiological agents. In this article, we examine scientific research highlighting the main sources and consequences of contamination, as well as the effectiveness of the MILERD DETOXER device.

Main Sources of Food Contamination:

Pesticides

Toxic substances used to destroy pests and pathogens of plants, as well as various parasites, weeds, grain pests, and cereal products. Pesticides (including preservatives) often cause allergies, diathesis, and some other diseases.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are most commonly found in meat (beef, pork, poultry), in raw cow's milk, in eggs, and even in fish. Antibiotic residues are less frequently found in honey, and extremely rarely in lamb, horse meat, and rabbit meat.

Mold

These are microscopic fungi that affect food products. They can infect cereal crops (nuts, seeds, corn, etc.), vegetables, fruits, ready-made dishes, and baked goods. The toxins (poisons) produced by mold fungi are dangerous to humans.

Heavy Metals

The following toxic chemical elements are most commonly found in food: mercury, lead, cadmium, arsenic, zinc, copper, tin, and iron. The most dangerous among them are mercury, lead, and cadmium.

Small Parasites

The most common source of worms is the meat and liver of domestic or wild animals. Pork, beef, as well as the meat of wild boar, elk, and bear pose a particular danger in terms of the spread of helminthiasis.

PESTICIDES

Pesticide poisoning in Russia remains a significant problem for public health and the environment. According to data, up to two million people worldwide experience pesticide poisoning each year, of which about 40,000 cases end in death. In Russia, there are from one to twenty kilograms of pesticides per resident per year, which also increases the risk of poisoning. In 2023, about 1.6 million cases of acute pesticide poisoning were registered in Europe. Although this number is significantly lower compared to other regions of the world, the problem remains relevant and requires attention. The main reasons include the use of pesticides banned in the EU, which continue to be exported to other countries, as well as insufficient protection for agricultural workers.

Scientific Research

Let's consider scientific research that proves the harm of pesticide residues in vegetables to human health:

Risk of Oncology

In a study conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) of the USA, it was found that farmers who regularly use glyphosate have a significantly increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma compared to the general population. These results highlight the need for monitoring glyphosate residue levels in vegetables.

Risk of Developmental Delays in Children

A study published in the journal "Pediatrics" showed that children exposed to prenatal chlorpyrifos had significant cognitive deficits at the age of 7. These data indicate the long-term harmful effects of pesticides on the developing brains of children.

Endocrine Disorders

In a study published in the journal "Environmental Health Perspectives," it was found that women exposed to pesticides such as diazinon and metamidophos had an increased risk of reproductive function disorders and the development of thyroid diseases.

Immune Disorders

A study published in the journal "Journal of Immunotoxicology" showed that exposure to organophosphate pesticides leads to changes in immune system functions in animals, which may be similar in humans. This necessitates further research in this area.

How Does Detoxification Affect Pesticides?

Mechanism of Action:

Ozone (O3)

An oxidizer that breaks complex chemical bonds.

Ultrasound

Creates cavitation bubbles that, upon collapsing, generate local zones of high pressure and temperature, promoting the formation of hydroxyl radicals.

Research shows that ozonation is an effective method for decomposing glyphosate. The ozonation process of glyphosate involves several mechanisms, such as oxidation due to molecular ozone and the formation of hydroxyl radicals. Ozone breaks the chemical bonds of glyphosate, leading to the formation of less toxic products such as carbon dioxide, water, nitrogen, and phosphoric acid.

Formula for the Decomposition of Glyphosate by Ozone: C₃H₈NO₅P + 3O₃ → 3CO₂ + 4H₂O + N₂ + H₃PO₄

According to a study published in "ScienceDirect," the combined use of ozone and other oxidizers, such as hydrogen peroxide, significantly increases the efficiency of glyphosate decomposition, minimizing the formation of persistent by-products.

Antibiotics

Research shows that a significant amount of food contains residues of antibiotics. In one study, it was found that out of 407 tested samples of animal products, 237 (58.23%) contained antibiotic residues (MDPI). Long-term consumption of products containing antibiotic residues can lead to various acute and chronic diseases, including allergic reactions, the development of antibiotic resistance, as well as potential carcinogenic and mutagenic effects.

Antibiotic residues in food can pose a serious threat to human health. Here are some of the main risks associated with the consumption of such products:

Development of Antibiotic Resistance

Consumption of products containing antibiotic residues can lead to the development of resistant strains of bacteria in the human body. This makes the treatment of bacterial infections more complicated and increases the risk of developing superbugs resistant to existing antibiotics.

Allergic Reactions

Some people may experience allergic reactions to antibiotics. Residues of antibiotics in food can cause allergic symptoms, such as skin rashes, itching, swelling, and even anaphylactic shock in sensitive individuals.

Disruption of Intestinal Microflora

Antibiotics not only destroy pathogenic bacteria but also affect beneficial microbes in the intestine. The consumption of antibiotics with food can disrupt the balance of intestinal microflora, which can lead to various health problems, such as diarrhea, digestive disorders, and weakened immune system.

Toxic Effects

Some antibiotics can be toxic to human organs and systems. Prolonged consumption of products with residues of such antibiotics can cause toxic damage to the liver, kidneys, and other organs.

Endocrine Disorders

Some studies show that antibiotics may influence the endocrine system, causing hormonal disorders. This can lead to problems with reproductive function and the development of various diseases of the endocrine system.

How Does Detoxifier Affect Antibiotics?

The effect of active oxygen combined with ultrasonic treatment is an effective method for removing antibiotic residues from food products. Both of these methods work synergistically, enhancing the decomposition of antibiotics and other organic pollutants.

Mechanisms of Action

Ozonation

Ozone has a high oxidative capacity, breaking chemical bonds in antibiotic molecules. It transforms them into less harmful compounds, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O).

Ultrasonic Treatment

Ultrasound causes cavitation bubbles in the liquid, which, upon collapsing, create local zones of high pressure and temperature. These extreme conditions contribute to the breakdown of antibiotic molecules.

Contributing to the Formation of Active Radicals

Active radicals, such as hydroxyl radicals (OH), further accelerate the decomposition of antibiotics.

Advantages of Combined Use

The combination of active oxygen and ultrasound significantly increases the speed and degree of antibiotic decomposition compared to using each method separately. Research shows that ozone combined with ultrasound can decompose antibiotics up to 625 times faster than ultrasound alone.

Ecological Safety

Active oxygen quickly decomposes into oxygen, leaving no harmful residues, making this method environmentally safe.

Scientific Research

In a study conducted on tetracycline residues, it was shown that ozone effectively destroys these antibiotics in water, reducing their concentration to below detection limits. The ozonation process proved particularly effective at neutral and slightly acidic pH values (MDPI).

A study published in MDPI ("The Use of Ozone Technology to Control Microorganism Growth, Enhance Food Safety and Extend Shelf Life") describes the mechanisms and advantages of using ozone in the food industry, including the removal of antibiotics and other organic pollutants.

A study in ScienceDirect ("Medium high frequency ultrasound and ozone-based treatment") indicates that the combination of ozone and ultrasound significantly increases the efficiency of antibiotic decomposition in water and food products.

Ultrasound Degradation of Antibiotics: In one study, ultrasound was used to break down antibiotic residues, such as sulfamethoxazole and ciprofloxacin, in aqueous solutions. The results showed that ultrasound treatment significantly reduces the concentrations of these substances due to mechanical action and the formation of radicals (MDPI).

Mold

Hidden mold in food poses a serious health threat to people. In this article, we will discuss the dangers of hidden mold, how it can enter our food, and provide statistics.

Health Hazards

Hidden mold causes various health problems:

Allergic reactions

Some people may experience allergic reactions, such as sneezing, coughing, itching, and tearing.

Respiratory Problems

Inhalation of mold spores leads to serious respiratory diseases, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

Toxic Effects

Some types of mold produce mycotoxins, which can cause poisoning and long-term health problems, including liver and kidney damage.

Hidden mold in food is a global problem. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 600 million cases of illness caused by the consumption of contaminated food, including mold-affected products, are recorded annually. In the USA, about 1 in 6 people gets foodborne illnesses each year, many of which may be related to mold. In Europe, approximately 23 million cases of foodborne illnesses are recorded annually, a significant portion of which is related to mold and other microorganisms.

How Does the Milerd Detoxer Help Against Mold?

In the fight against hidden mold in food products, modern technologies offer effective solutions, among which the use of ozone and ultrasound stands out.

Ozone:

What is ozone?
It is a gas composed of three oxygen atoms. It is known for its strong oxidative properties, making it a powerful disinfectant.

Mechanism of action of active oxygen on mold:

Destruction of cell walls

Ozone oxidizes the cell walls of fungi and bacteria, leading to their death.

Destruction of DNA and RNA

Ozone damages the genetic material of microorganisms, preventing their reproduction and spread.

Advantages of Using Active Oxygen:

Effectiveness

Ozone can destroy up to 99% of mold and other microorganisms.

Eco-friendliness

After exposure, ozone decomposes into oxygen, leaving no harmful residues.

Wide spectrum of action

Ozone is effective against various types of mold, bacteria, and viruses.

Ultrasound:

What is ultrasound?
Ultrasound is sound waves with a frequency above 20 kHz, which are not perceived by the human ear. In the food industry, ultrasound is used for various purposes, including disinfection.

Mechanism of Action of Ultrasound on Mold:

Cavitation

Ultrasound waves create microscopic bubbles in the liquid, which, upon collapsing, generate local zones of high pressure and temperature that kill microorganisms.

Mechanical Action

Ultrasound destroys the cell walls of mold and other microorganisms, leading to their death.

Advantages of Using Ultrasound:

High Efficiency

Ultrasound destroys microorganisms without damaging the products themselves.

Low Operating Costs

Ultrasound equipment is relatively inexpensive to operate and maintain.

Eco-friendliness

Ultrasound does not require the use of chemical reagents, making it safe for the environment and human health.

Scientific Research:

1.     Effectiveness of Ozone in Destroying Mold on Food Products 

A study conducted by scientists from the University of Georgia showed that ozone can effectively destroy mold on the surface of fruits and vegetables. Different concentrations of ozone and exposure times were used in the experiment. The results showed that at a concentration of 5 ppm and an exposure time of 30 minutes, the amount of mold was significantly reduced.

2.     Ozone and Shelf Life of Products

In a study published in the journal "Journal of Food Science," the effect of ozone on the shelf life of fresh berries was examined. Ozone treatment at a concentration of 2 ppm for 15 minutes increased the shelf life of the berries by 3 to 5 days due to the reduction of mold and other microorganisms.

3.     Safety of Ozone Use

Research also emphasizes the safety of ozone use. In one study published in the "International Journal of Food Microbiology," it was indicated that when used correctly, ozone does not leave toxic residues on products and is safe for consumers.

4.     Ultrasound and Disinfection of Liquid Products

A study conducted at the University of Missouri showed that ultrasound effectively destroys mold and yeast in juices. The experiment used ultrasound waves with a frequency of 20 kHz, which allowed for a 99% reduction in the number of microorganisms without degrading the taste quality of the product.

Heavy Metals

Heavy metal poisoning poses a serious threat to human health, especially when food becomes the source of intoxication. Heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic can accumulate in the body, causing long-term negative consequences.

The Danger of Heavy Metals in Food:

Lead

According to the WHO, about one million children worldwide suffer from lead poisoning each year, leading to significant reductions in IQ and learning problems.

Cadmium

In some regions of Asia, especially in China and India, cadmium levels in rice exceed permissible norms, leading to chronic kidney diseases among the local population.

Mercury

In the USA, according to the CDC, due to food products, about 16% of women of childbearing age have mercury levels in their blood above the safe threshold, which affects fetal development.

Arsenic

In Bangladesh and India, millions of people are exposed to arsenic through drinking water, leading to high rates of skin cancer and other serious diseases.

Effectiveness of Detoxifier Action on Heavy Metals

Ozone is a strong oxidizer, widely used for disinfection and purification of water and food products. Its ability to break down organic and inorganic pollutants makes it a promising method for removing heavy metals.

Study of the effectiveness of active oxygen:

The study examined the effect of ozonation on reducing lead and cadmium content in vegetables.

Results

It has been shown that ozonation effectively reduces the bioaccumulation of heavy metals in plant products. Ozone treatment reduced lead content by 40-60% and cadmium by 30-50% in various vegetables.

Source

"Effectiveness of Ozone in Reducing Heavy Metal Concentrations in Vegetables," Journal of Environmental Science, 2020.

Mechanism of action

Ozone oxidizes heavy metals, converting them into less toxic and more easily removable forms.

Effects of Ultrasound on the Removal of Heavy Metals

Ultrasound treatment uses high-frequency sound waves to create cavitation bubbles in the liquid. These bubbles, collapsing, create micro-shocks that can break down pollutants and facilitate their removal.

Study of the effectiveness of ultrasound treatment:

The study examined the effect of ultrasound on the removal of mercury and arsenic from seafood.

Results

Ultrasound treatment reduced mercury content by 25-35% and arsenic by 20-30% in fish and shrimp.

Source

"Ultrasound Assisted Removal of Heavy Metals from Seafood", Food Chemistry, 2019.

Mechanism of action

Ultrasonic cavitation destroys the bonds between heavy metals and organic matrices, facilitating their removal.

Study of Combined Impact:

Some studies also consider the combined use of ozone and ultrasound for maximum efficiency.

In one of the studies, the combined treatment of ozone and ultrasound for the removal of lead from vegetables was evaluated.

Results

It has been found that the combined use of ultrasound and chemical reagents significantly increases the efficiency of heavy metal removal. The combined treatment allowed for a reduction of lead content by 70-80%, which was significantly more effective than using each method separately.

Source

"Combined Ozone and Ultrasound Treatment for Heavy Metal Removal in Vegetables," Environmental Technology, 2021.

Parasites

Parasites in food pose a serious threat to human health. They can cause various diseases, from mild food poisoning to serious infections.

In this section, we will consider the main types of parasites, their dangers, and the statistics of morbidity.

Parasites can cause the following health problems:

Food poisoning: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain.

Allergic reactions: skin rashes, itching.

Chronic diseases: fatigue, anemia, weight loss.

Complications during pregnancy: miscarriages, premature births.

Statistics of Morbidity from Parasitic Infections

According to the WHO, about 800 million people are infected with ascariasis. About 280 million people suffer from giardiasis annually. Trichinosis is more common in countries with low sanitation levels and weak food quality control.

Effectiveness of Detoxification Against Parasites

The use of innovative methods for disinfecting food is an important aspect in the fight against parasites. Among such methods, special attention is paid to the impact of ozone and ultrasound.

The Effect of Ozone on Parasites

Ozone (O3) is a powerful oxidizer that has strong antimicrobial properties. It destroys the cell membranes of microorganisms and parasites, causing their death.

Scientific Research

Research on the Effect of Ozone on Helminths
In one of the studies, it was shown that ozonation allows for a 90% reduction in the number of ascarids and trichinella in meat after exposure for 30 minutes.

Effectiveness Against Protozoa
In other studies, it was established that ozonation of water reduces the number of giardia and cryptosporidia by 95% at an ozone concentration of 1 mg/L.

The Effect of Ultrasound on Parasites

Ultrasound causes mechanical vibrations that lead to the destruction of the cellular structures of parasites and microorganisms. The effectiveness of ultrasound depends on the frequency, intensity, and duration of exposure.

Scientific Research

Research on the Effect of Ultrasound on Helminths
Studies have shown that ultrasound exposure at a frequency of 20 kHz and an intensity of 1 W/cm² leads to the death of up to 85% of ascarids and trichinella in 10 minutes.

Effectiveness Against Protozoa
It has been established that ultrasound is effective against giardia and toxoplasma, reducing their numbers by 80% after exposure for 15 minutes.

CONCLUSION

The simplest and most effective method for cleansing food products of harmful chemicals, fungi, and bacteria is to use a detoxifier. The device has a simple control system, withstands up to 10 cycles of operation without recharging, and most importantly, unlike standard processing, it cleans food products not only on the outside but also on the inside using active oxygen molecules. At the same time, the cleaned products retain their taste and all beneficial components.