Understanding Food Additives: A Guide to Common Ingredients and myWel…

What are Food Additives?

Food additives are substances intentionally added to food during processing or preparation. They serve various purposes, including improving taste, texture, and visual appeal, as well as preserving freshness and extending shelf life. Additives undergo safety evaluations before being approved for use in food products.

myWellabee's Additive Filter:

myWellabee offers a helpful additive filter feature, allowing you to identify products that are free from additives. This tool enables you to personalise your search and select products that align with your dietary needs and preferences.

Common Food Additives:

a. Artificial Sweeteners:

Examples: Aspartame, Sucralose, Saccharin.

Function: Provide sweetness without added sugar or calories.

Commonly found in:Sugar-free products, diet beverages, chewing gum.

b. Preservatives:

Examples: BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole), BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), Sodium Benzoate.

Function: Extend shelf life and prevent spoilage by inhibiting microbial growth.

Commonly found in: Processed meats, packaged snacks, condiments.

c. Flavour Enhancers:

Examples: Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), Disodium Inosinate, Disodium Guanylate.

Function: Enhance the taste of food by providing a savoury or umami flavour.

Commonly found in: Soups, snack foods, seasoning mixes.

d. Emulsifiers and Stabilizers:

Examples: Soy Lecithin, Xanthan Gum, Carrageenan.

Function: Help mix or bind ingredients, stabilise textures, and prevent separation.

Commonly found in: Salad dressings, ice cream, baked goods.

e. Artificial Colours:

Examples: Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1.

Function: Enhance or impart colour to food products.

Commonly found in: Candy, beverages, processed snacks.

Making Informed Choices:

When deciphering ingredient lists, keep the following tips in mind:

• Familiarise yourself with common additives and their potential effects. 

• Use myWellabee's additive filter to identify products free from additives.

• Read ingredient labels carefully and look for allergen warnings.

• Consider natural alternatives and whole food options that minimize the need for additives.

• Balance your diet by focusing on fresh, unprocessed foods.

Understanding food additives is essential for individuals with dietary allergies and intolerances. By familiarising yourself with common additives, leveraging myWellabee's additive filter, and reading ingredient labels carefully, you can make informed choices about the foods you consume. myWellabee's commitment to additive awareness and education empowers you to navigate the world of food additives with confidence and maintain a diet that aligns with your needs.