Food additives are ingredients that are added to foods to carry out particular functions.
Manufacturers must provide information about any additives used in the foods they produce. You can find this information in the list of ingredients on the packaging. It will tell you what each additive does, followed by its name or E number.
Food additives are grouped by what they do. The additives that you are most likely to come across on food labels are:
Additives must be assessed for safety before they can be used in food. We also ensure that:
We investigate any information that casts reasonable doubt on the safety of an additive.
We funded research into possible links between food colours and hyperactivity in children. It found that consuming certain artificial food colours could cause increased hyperactivity in some children.
These artificial colours are:
Food and drink containing any of these six colours must carry a warning on the packaging. This will say ‘May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children’.
We encourage manufacturers to work towards finding alternatives to these colours. Some manufacturers and retailers have already taken action to remove them.
It’s important to remember that hyperactivity can also be caused by other things. So being careful about what a child eats may help manage hyperactive behaviour but it may not stop it.
A food additive is only approved if; it has been tested and proved to be safe for its intended use; there is a justifiable technological need to use it; and its use does not mislead the consumer.
All the foods we eat consist of chemicals in one form or another. Many food additives are chemicals which exist in nature such as antioxidants ascorbic acid (vitamin C) or citric acid, found in citrus fruits.
Due to technological advancements, many other additives are now man-made to perform certain technological functions. Whether or not the chemicals used in additives exist in nature, they are subject to the same safety evaluations.
Some consumers think of food additives (E numbers) as a modern invention used to make cheap foods. In reality, food additives have a long history of consumption and are used in many traditional foods. For example, wines including Champagne contain sulphites, and bacon contains the preservatives nitrates and nitrites to prevent the growth of botulism.
For a full list of E numbers please see our Approved additives and E numbers page.As with all other food additives, sweeteners must undergo a safety evaluation before they are authorised for use in food.
Only people who are diagnosed at birth with phenylketonuria need to avoid foods containing certain sweeteners, i.e. aspartame and aspartame-acesulfame salt. This is because they cannot consume foods containing phenylalanine which includes foods such as meat, dairy and nuts.
Due to reported concerns about sensitivity to aspartame (e.g. headaches, dizziness and stomach upsets) the Food Standards Agency commissioned research to investigate this further. People who self-reported sensitivity to aspartame were either given a cereal bar with or without aspartame; but were not told which bar they had consumed. The results showed that there was no difference in reported symptoms after eating the aspartame containing bar compared to the normal bar.
This study only investigated possible short-term effects of aspartame consumption. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) opinion concluded that aspartame and its breakdown products are safe for the general population, at current levels of exposure.
Additional information on the safety of sweeteners can also be found on the NHS website.
Slush ice drinks can contain the ingredient glycerol as a substitute for sugar, at a level required to create the ‘slush’ effect. At this level, we recommend that children aged four years and under should not consume these drinks.
This is due to their potential to cause side-effects such as headaches and sickness, particularly when consumed in excess.
For more information on glycerol and our guidelines for businesses that produce slush drinks, see our Approved additives and E numbers page.
Energy drinks are generally drinks with high levels of caffeine. They are usually marketed as giving a mental and physical 'boost' by providing more ‘energy’ than regular soft drinks like cola. They’re different to ‘sports drinks’ which you might use to replace electrolytes lost during exercise.
Energy drinks can contain high levels of caffeine, Products with increasingly higher caffeine levels are being introduced to the market. Caffeine levels in a can of energy drink can vary between 80mg (equivalent to two cans of cola or a mug of instant coffee) and 200mg (equivalent to five cans of cola). Imported versions of energy drinks often have higher caffeine content than the UK equivalent product. As even small cans of energy drinks or bottle of 'energy shot' products can contain anywhere from 80mg to as much as 200mg of caffeine in a small 60ml bottle.
Consumers should always check the label before drinking them.
In May , The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published a report on the safety of caffeine. They looked at research on the short term adverse effects of caffeine such as interrupted sleep, anxiety and behavioural changes and increased blood pressure.
EFSA’s advice for those without underlying health problems such as hypertension, is that:
Based on current scientific opinions on the safety of caffeine, we advise that children, or other people sensitive to caffeine, should only consume caffeine in moderation. Pregnant and breast-feeding women are advised not to have more than 200mg of caffeine over the course of a day. This is roughly two mugs of instant coffee or one mug of filter coffee. Drinks like espresso and lattes, which are made from ground coffee, typically contain higher levels of caffeine per mug.
When purchasing energy drinks of 'energy shots' containing caffeine, we advise that you always check the label to see how much caffeine the product contains.
The Food Information (assimilated Regulation (EU) /) requires specific labelling for high caffeine drinks and foods where caffeine has been added for a physiological effect. This labelling helps consumers to identify foods with high caffeine content in those products where they may not expect to find it.
Drinks that contain caffeine from whatever source at a level over 150mg per litre (mg/l) must state: ‘High caffeine content. Not recommended for children or pregnant or breast-feeding women’.
This must be in the same field of vision as the name of the product, along with the amount of caffeine expressed in mg per 100ml.
Foods (other than drinks) to which caffeine is added for a physiological purpose must state: ‘Contains caffeine. Not recommended for children or pregnant women'.
This must be in the same field of vision as the name of the food along with the amount of caffeine in mg per 100g or per 100ml.
The British Soft Drinks Association has a voluntary Code of Practice on energy drinks, which suggests that the term 'Consume Moderately' (or similar words) should be included on the label and that such products should not be promoted or marketed to those under 16 years of age.
The above labelling rules do not apply to foods (including drinks) where caffeine is added for flavour rather than for a physiological purpose. These types of foods and drinks must comply with flavouring legislation ( assimilated Regulation (EU) /). This limits the use of caffeine for flavouring purposes and sets maximum levels depending on the particular food or drink it is used in. For regular soft drinks like cola, the maximum amount of added caffeine permitted is 150 mg/l. The labelling legislation (assimilated Regulation (EU) /) requires that where caffeine is used as a flavouring, the term ‘caffeine’ must appear after the word ‘flavouring(s)’ in the list of ingredients.
Nitrites and nitrates are naturally present in vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, celery and even beetroot. These are the main sources of dietary exposure to nitrates with only around 5% coming from its use as a food additive.
Nitrites and nitrates (E 249 – E 252) are used in certain cheeses and processed meats such as bacon, ham, corned beef and other cured meats to help keep it looking red and to aid the development of the ‘cured’ flavour. However, their main role is to reduce the growth of harmful microorganisms in particular clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can be life threatening.
All food additives must pass a robust safety assessment, a key element of which is looking at the actual risk to human health based on the levels at which an additive is likely to be present in the diet.
The FSA considers that existing levels of nitrites and nitrates are sufficiently protective for consumers. This is based on the view of the independent committees that advise the FSA, the rest of Government, and other scientific organisations such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). These preservatives can only be used at the lowest effective levels which are kept under review.
Sodium and potassium salts of nitrite (E 249-250) and nitrate (E 251-252) were re-evaluated by EFSA in ; following which it advised that nitrites and nitrates intentionally added at permitted levels to meat and other foods remain safe.
Whilst links have been made between the over-consumption of red and processed meat and an increased risk of certain types of bowel cancer, it is not yet fully understood how this occurs; some contributory factors proposed are the processing method, how it is cooked (e.g. temperature) and may in part be a result of natural components in the meat.
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Red and processed meat, whether produced with the use of nitrites and nitrates or without, can form part of varied and balanced diet when consumed within current NHS guidelines, and alongside healthy lifestyle choices.
Intermediate chemicals are essential in industrial processes and manufacturing. Their quality and availability directly impact the quality of your end products and the efficiency of your operations. Hence, selecting the right supplier is not just a decision; it’s a strategic move.
This guide will unpack the essential considerations when selecting an intermediate chemical supplier.
Intermediate chemicals are compounds formed as “stepping stones” in the journey from raw material to finished product.
Their role isn’t just limited to product formulation; they also enhance the overall efficacy of industrial operations.
These chemicals often serve as foundational components in a wide variety of products. Whether it’s pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agrochemicals, or specialty chemicals, intermediates are the backbone that supports product formulation.
Incorporating the right intermediates can optimize reaction pathways, reducing the number of steps or even enabling more energy-efficient reactions. This translates to quicker production cycles and reduced costs.
Intermediates can influence the performance attributes of the final product. For instance, in pharmaceuticals, an intermediate might play a role in enhancing the drug’s efficacy or stability.
Many industries have strict guidelines on product composition and quality.
Using specific, high-quality intermediate chemicals can assist in meeting these requirements, ensuring that the end products are safe and compliant.
As new materials and compounds are discovered, the role of intermediates evolves. They allow industries to innovate, release new products or enhance existing ones, by acting as the bridge between foundational chemistry and innovative application.
The production, sale, and purchase of intermediate chemicals form a significant portion of the global chemical industry’s economy. Their manufacture and trade create jobs, drive research, and support many downstream industries.
While many intermediate chemicals serve as steady building blocks in the production process, reactive intermediates are a class of their own.
They are transient species that exist momentarily during a chemical reaction, playing a pivotal role in the transition from reactants to products.
Incorporating reactive intermediates into your production process can be a game-changer, but it necessitates a supplier well-versed in their nuanced behavior and applications.
Intermediate chemicals are essential components in various industries and processes. A reliable catalyst manufacturing partner plays a crucial role in facilitating the production of these chemicals.
Here are some primary industries and processes that heavily rely on intermediate chemicals and, by extension, need a dependable catalyst manufacturer.
The creation of drugs often involves multiple stages, and intermediate chemicals are vital at each step. Catalysts speed up these reactions, ensuring drugs are produced efficiently.
Production of fertilizers, insecticides, herbicides, and other agricultural chemicals involves complex processes where both agro intermediate chemicals and catalysts are indispensable.
Oil and gas refining processes use intermediate chemicals to produce a wide range of products, from fuels to lubricants. Catalysts help in cracking and other refining operations.
The synthesis of various plastics and polymers requires specific intermediate chemicals. Catalysts ensure that these processes proceed at a feasible rate and temperature.
From the formulation of fragrances to the synthesis of specific compounds used in skincare, intermediate chemicals are crucial. Catalysts often play a role in synthesizing organic compounds in these products.
Intermediate chemicals are required for dye synthesis, finishing agents, and other treatments. Catalysts can optimize these reactions.
Semiconductors, insulators, and other components often require specialized chemicals in their manufacturing processes. Catalysts can facilitate these chemical reactions.
While direct addition is limited, intermediate chemicals play a role in food additives, preservatives, and flavoring agents’ production. Catalysts aid in synthesizing some of these compounds.
These are produced in smaller quantities than commodities and have specific applications. Both intermediate chemicals and catalysts are integral to their production.
Catalysts play a role in reducing emissions in various industries. Intermediate chemicals can also be used in water treatment processes and waste management.
As industries move towards sustainable processes, intermediate chemicals derived from bio-based sources are on the rise. Catalysts aid in these green transformations.
These are chemicals produced in limited volumes and high purity levels. They require precise synthesis routes, often necessitating specific intermediate chemicals and catalysts.
Choosing the right supplier is essential for efficient operations, cost savings, and product quality.
Here are key factors to consider in making an informed decision.
Quality isn’t merely an indicator; it’s the very essence of a product. Ensure that your supplier emphasizes product purity and consistency. Look for certifications, industry standards, and testing methods they employ.
A supplier’s history often paints a clear picture of their competence. Investigate their on-time delivery metrics, adherence to product specifications, and, if possible, gather client testimonials or case studies.
Balancing cost with quality is crucial. Beyond mere price points, examine the potential for volume discounts, favorable contractual terms, and other financial incentives that could benefit your bottom line.
Technical glitches are inevitable. What matters is how your supplier responds to them. Gauge their technical prowess, their problem-solving capabilities, and the efficiency of their after-sales support.
Dig deep into the origins of your supplier’s products. Understand their sourcing methodologies, ensuring they are both reliable and sustainable. Also, probe into their contingency measures for disruptions.
In a dynamic market, flexibility is paramount. Your supplier should be capable of customizing products to meet specific requirements, adapting to order modifications, and even adjusting batch sizes.
In an era where sustainability is paramount, it’s essential to align with suppliers who prioritize green processes. Beyond this, ensure that the company practices ethical sourcing, manufacturing, and community engagement.
A supplier’s proximity can influence the efficiency of your operations. Beyond mere location, assess their warehousing capabilities, distribution network, and overall logistical prowess.
Innovation drives progress. A supplier that invests in R&D not only provides cutting-edge products but also opens avenues for collaborative projects, giving you a competitive edge.
While vetting potential suppliers, be on the lookout for inconsistencies in product quality, a lack of transparency in sourcing methods, or any reservations about their ethical standards. Recognizing these early can save you from costly pitfalls down the road.
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