Understand What’s Inside Your Food

A modern, science-based guide to the most common food additives used worldwide.

What Are Food Additives?

Food additives are ingredients added to foods for functional reasons—such as improving flavor, color, stability, freshness, or processing performance. This site provides clear, simplified explanations so consumers can make informed decisions.

Popular Additives

Curcumin (E100)

Function: Natural colorant

Common Uses: Drinks, snacks, seasonings

Safety: Regarded as safe under approved limits

Carotenoids (E160)

Function: Natural pigments

Common Uses: Dairy, baked goods, beverages

Safety: Widely recognized as safe

Potassium Sorbate (E202)

Function: Preservative

Common Uses: Jams, cheese, drinks

Safety: Safe within regulatory limits

Sodium Benzoate (E211)

Function: Preservative

Common Uses: Soft drinks, sauces

Safety: Avoid combination with high vitamin C

Citric Acid (E330)

Function: Acidity regulator

Common Uses: Drinks, candy

Safety: Very commonly used and safe

MSG (E621)

Function: Flavor enhancer

Common Uses: Soups, snacks, seasonings

Safety: Safe; some individuals may be sensitive