An increased AST level is usually a sign of liver disease. Liver disease is even more likely when the levels of substances checked by other liver blood tests have also increased. An increased AST level may be due to any of the following:
In order to keep itself fresh, the lettuce gives off carbon dioxide, causing a slight odour. This carbon dioxide is not harmful and the odour should disappear quickly once the salad package is opened.
Sodium benzoate is a preservative commonly used in fruit pies, jams, beverages, salads, relishes, and sauerkraut -- foods that have an acidic pH. Chemical preservatives, such as sodium benzoate are frequently used in processed foods to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast or other nasty microorganisms that could spoil your food. When sodium benzoate is combined with water, benzoic acid is produced. Benzoic acid is the active form of the preservative - the form that protects foods. Benzoic acid is also found naturally in some fruits such as cranberries, plums, and apples.