Feedback - September 2011
Discussions from the magazine, website and social media
Survey 2011 Prizewinners, letters and comments from social media
Congratulations to the lucky winners of our Readership Survey competition:
- Simon Hiscocks, Sutton Valence School
- Vaila McClure, London
- K Fiona Morris, Eltham College
- Mr Horsburgh, Ullapool High School
- Rebecca Roberts, Glyncoed Comprehensive School
- Paul Longden, City of London Freemen's School
- Tim Bridle, Brentside High School
- Michael Aicken, Skegness Grammar School
- Oliver Choroba, Charterhouse
- J Hutchinson, Imberhorne School
- Jayne Dean, Huddersfield
Simon receives £100 in Amazon vouchers, and the runners-up each receive a set of RSC puzzle books.
PHVO - a call to modify exam specifications
I am concerned that some A-level and GCSE specifications continue to have a reference to the use of partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (PHVOs) in margarine as an example of an industrial application of chemistry.
This is objectionable on a number of grounds: partially hydrogenated vegetable oils are high in trans fats which are considered a significant health hazard, and the UK has no branded spreads or margarines which contain PHVO, so the reference is largely out of date.
Perhaps most significant is the misunderstanding this can generate in students and indeed the wider population. If the use of PHVO in margarine is stated as a fact, then a student may become aware of the health risks and consequently become worried of consuming margarines or spreads, when actually there is no PHVO in these products. I understand that PHVO is still used in some catering establishments but many others are advertising the PHVO-free nature of the food.
It is possible that the whole EU may move to a ban on PHVO, following the lead of Denmark and Austria. Indeed, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence recommended such a ban in 2010. I believe it is time to remove this item from specifications or at least to modify it considerably.
Neil Barker, John Leggott College
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