Category: Preservatives

The common food additive sodium propionate is frequently used to inhibit mold growth in baked goods and cheeses. However, the question of whether this compound is natural or synthetic has a more nuanced answer than you might initially think, as its origins are rooted in both nature and industrial science.

According to the company's official FAQ, Lakewood does not and never has used preservatives in any of its juices. This commitment to pure, additive-free products is central to the Lakewood brand identity, which relies on other methods to ensure the safety and freshness of its juice offerings.

Over 95% of processed foods undergo some form of preservation, and BHT is a common synthetic antioxidant found in many packaged items to prevent spoilage. Butylated hydroxytoluene, or BHT, is used primarily to inhibit the oxidation of fats and oils, a process that can cause rancidity and diminish food quality.

Over 60% of consumers seek information about food additives like E211. This preservative, known as sodium benzoate, is not found naturally in its final form but is derived from benzoic acid, a substance that does occur in some fruits and spices.

Sodium benzoate, also known by the code E211, is a widely used food preservative in acidic products to inhibit the growth of yeast, mold, and bacteria. Numerous processed and packaged items contain E211, from soft drinks and fruit juices to a variety of sauces and condiments.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), about 1 in 100 people are sensitive to sulfites, a group of compounds that includes sodium metabisulfite. This common preservative is added to a wide range of foods to prevent spoilage and discoloration, making it crucial for sensitive individuals to know which products contain it.

Over 150 countries worldwide have approved the use of the 235 preservative, known as Natamycin. This natural antifungal agent is derived from fermentation and is widely used in the food industry to protect various products from spoilage by mold and yeast.

Originally valued for its antiseptic properties, 4-hexylresorcinol, also known as 4-HR, has become a key food additive. It is primarily used in the seafood industry to combat a natural enzyme reaction known as melanosis. This versatile compound has also shown potential for use in other food applications, leveraging its antioxidant and enzyme-inhibiting abilities.

Did you know that over 75% of industrially produced acetic acid (E260) is made synthetically, while it is also naturally found in vinegar? Food ingredient 260 is a common food additive with a variety of roles in food production, from extending shelf life to enhancing flavor.

In 2015, Kellogg's announced plans to remove BHT from some of its cereals due to consumer pressure. This has led many to question, "Does Kellogg's Raisin Bran have BHT in it?", especially concerning current recipes and packaging.