Tag: Additive safety

In 2015, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that an adequate assessment of the food additive E172 (iron oxides and hydroxides) could not be carried out due to insufficient data. This raises an important and persistent question for consumers and manufacturers alike: is E172 safe?

Did you know that xanthan gum E415 was discovered in the 1960s by a USDA research team and is now one of the most widely used food additives globally? This ingredient, a polysaccharide produced via fermentation, is prized for its ability to thicken, stabilize, and emulsify a vast array of food and industrial products.

According to major regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA, food-grade potassium acetate is generally considered a safe additive for the general population. This article explores the functions and safety profile of potassium acetate (E261) in food products, helping consumers understand its role in their diet.

A 2024 French observational study highlighted concerning correlations between higher intake of the emulsifier E471 and an increased risk of certain cancers. This emerging research prompts a vital question: what are the side effects of E471, and how should consumers interpret the conflicting data surrounding its safety?

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other international regulatory bodies, Preservative 223 (sodium metabisulfite) is generally recognized as safe for most people when consumed within specified limits. However, for a significant portion of the population, particularly those with asthma, this common food additive can trigger allergic reactions and other adverse health effects, making it a source of concern.

Titanium dioxide is used in thousands of food products, and in ranch dressing, its purpose is purely cosmetic. This additive helps create the visually appealing, bright white color that consumers expect, preventing the dressing from appearing dull or off-white.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), food-grade calcium sulfate, a form of gypsum, is classified as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for human consumption within specific food products. This fact highlights a critical distinction: not all gypsum is created equal, and its safety for ingestion depends entirely on its purity and intended use.

Caramel color is the most widely used food coloring in the world, found in everything from colas to baked goods. Despite its name and sugar-based origin, the finished product is not a sweetener, but is used almost exclusively for its color.

Did you know that some supplement additives are used solely for manufacturing efficiency, not for your health? Understanding why vitamins have so many additives is a vital first step to making informed choices about your wellness and what you put into your body.

Potassium sorbate is one of the most widely used food preservatives in the world, approved by major regulatory bodies for decades. However, consumer concerns regarding its synthetic nature and safety have fueled a recurring controversy over this common additive.