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In the UK we have "Miscellaneous Food Additives Regulations 1995" which
suppose to control the use of preservatives in food. Preservatives are
used to keep food safe for a longer period of time, the only other way
to keep food fresh and bacteria free is by freezing, canning or drying.
Sugar, Salt and vinegar are still used to preserve some food products so
not all preservatives are a new chemical known by some "E" number. Most food
additives must be included by name or by an E number in the ingredient list.
The ingredient list also tells you what job an additive does, such as a
sweetener or acting as a preservative.
- Antioxidants
Any food made using fats or oils are likely to contain antioxidants.
- Colours
These are sometimes used to replace the natural colour lost during food
processing
- Emulsifiers, stabilisers, gelling agents and
thickeners
Emulsifiers, help mix ingredients together that would normally separate.
Stabilisers, help stop these ingredients from separating again. gelling
agents are used to change the consistency of food. Thickeners help give
body to food.
- Flavour enhancers and flavourings
Flavour enhancers are used to bring out the flavour
- Preservatives
These help stop food go off and mean that food can be kept safe for
longer
- Sweeteners
Sweeteners are often used instead of sugar in products such as fizzy
drinks
Food Free Range Eggs
Battery Hens Organic
GM Water
Preservatives
E-Numbers Allotments |
