Tag: Food additives explained

According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), phosphates like E451 do not pose a safety concern for the general population when consumed within established acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels. This additive is widely used in processed foods, but its safety profile is often debated among consumers.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), BHT, or butylated hydroxytoluene, has been recognized as safe for use in food since 1959. However, the role of this common food additive is often misunderstood; BHT functions primarily as a synthetic antioxidant, not a flavor enhancer.

Studies show that while our bodies absorb about 50-60% of naturally-occurring phosphorus, the absorption rate for inorganic phosphate additives in food can jump to 90%. So, what's wrong with sodium phosphate, and how does this difference affect your overall health?

Monocalcium phosphate (MCP) is a GRAS-certified ingredient by the U.S. FDA, indicating its long history of safe use in food products. This versatile food additive, also known as calcium dihydrogen phosphate, is predominantly added to food for leavening purposes in baked goods and for fortifying products with essential minerals.

According to the ingredients list for Gatorade's Original Thirst Quencher, monopotassium phosphate is added to provide a source of potassium. This ingredient is not just a nutrient; it is a soluble salt that plays multiple roles in the beverage, including serving as a vital electrolyte and a buffering agent. Understanding these functions reveals why monopotassium phosphate is in Gatorade and what it does for the body.

According to a 2017 review by the European Food Safety Authority, common gums like guar gum are generally safe for the public at refined exposure levels. However, concerns remain for certain individuals regarding additives used in ice cream, raising the question: are the gums in ice cream bad for you?.