As I run an eco business I am aware of the many environmental choices available when making my purchases. Reusable, eco friendly, biodegradable are always my preferred options.

But as a mother of four I am also careful about the what my family consumes in the way of healthy food and drink.

With the rise of Monsanto, water fluoridation and fast food outlets it seems society is geared toward making us unhealthy.

However a groundswell of passionate consumers have in recent years brought organic produce, farmer’s markets and locally-made goods to the fore, which I am all for.

Despite this I still use the supermarket. But here is tricky part, and it’s like negotiating a field of landmines: what additives are put in the foods I buy and how do I ascertain whether they are healthy or not.

I recently picked up the book Additive Alert by Australian writer Julie Eady.

She provides “the essential information about what’s really in the food you eat, which additives avoid and why”.

The full-time Mum of three began her research as a personal project to identify better food choices for her family, but it quickly led onto a much bigger project as she discovered the truth about the serious health concerns associated with additives used in Australian foods.

Her book states: “We do not have a system that creates health. We have a pharmaceutical-based health system that treats the symptoms not the disease”.

“If we had a health system it would be targeting our poor diets, our contaminated environment, our negative attitude and our stressed lifestyle.

“If you are interested in good health, where do you start? I suggest you look at what you put in your mouth, particularly the food additives.”

Eady’s book goes on to say that many food additives are cosmetic ingredients used for the sole purpose of fooling the consumer, targeting the most vulnerable groups of the population, children. Children are more vulnerable because their bodies are growing and laying down the foundation for health for the rest of their life.

I find cooking healthy foods relatively easy once I knew what to look for and where to buy. I am a big advocate for farmer’s markets.

As an owner of a party store, party food is my big passion to change. Typical party food contains being nasty substances including a number of carcinogens. I have heard many people tell me, parties are a novelty so its doesn’t matter if they have typical party food now and then. But I think the opposite. 

Once you know about the chemical and additives in some lollies and junk food you will think differently. I think we can still have fun party food without the nasty chemicals and additives. For your next child’s party why not change from typical party food to more healthier alternatives while still having the "sometimes" food.