Potassium bromate (KBrO3)
Remember how kneading improves the texture of baked goods by introducing oxygen into the dough? Industrial baking partially replaces kneading with potassium bromate, an oxidation agent. The FDA believes potassium bromate safely breaks down in the baking process —but it’s classified as a possible carcinogen by the World Health Organization, labeled as toxic in the EU, and banned in Canada. To avoid it, look for brands that advertise as free of potassium bromate, or try baking your own bread!