Types of food ingredients

Food ingredients serve many functions. Examples include preservatives that slow spoilage, emulsifiers that help oil and water mix, stabilizers and thickeners that affect texture, leavening agents that create gas, and sweeteners, flavors and colors that affect sensory properties.

Some ingredients have several functions, and not every ingredient is classified as a food additive under U.S. law. Ingredient names and required labeling depend on the product and applicable regulations.

For an unfamiliar ingredient, consult an authoritative source to understand its purpose rather than assuming that a chemical-sounding name indicates a health hazard.

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

Food Ingredients and Colors — FDA

Descriptions of common ingredient categories and their functions.

Overview of Food Ingredients, Additives & Colors — FDA

FDA explanation of food additive categories and oversight.

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