Some common additives include-
- Preservatives: keep the food fresh and prevent it from decay by controlling the spread of bacteria, which can cause life-threatening illnesses such as salmonellosis or botulism. An example would be sulphur dioxide, Sodium nitrate and ascorbic acid. They are used in food like dried fruits, cheeses, margarine, mayonnaise and dressings, bakery products, etc.
- Flavoring: is used to enhance the taste of food, MSG (Monosodium glutamate) is a common flavor enhancer used in foods like soups, stock cubes, etc. Vanillin is another flavoring used in desserts, cakes, chocolates, etc.
- Colorings : they include tartrazine, caramel, curcumin, amaranth, riboflavin, etc. It is important because we like to eat food that is appealing and sometimes during the processing or storage of food, it looses its attractive appearance. Sweets and drinks usually contain colorings.
- Emulsifier: another important additive. It stops oil and water from separating out into layers. Lecithin is an example that is used to make powdered milk.