There has been much debate on the safety of food additives, particularly with the increased quantities and combinations used in modern "convenience food".

Who decides if a food additive is considered safe?

Each country generally has its own food regulatory/approval group, for example:

• United States - the FDAUS Food and Drug Administration, an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services responsible for regulating and supervising the safety of foods, dietary supplements, drugs, cosmetics, and other products affecting public health. (Food and Drug Administration) maintains a few lists including EFAUS (Every Food Additive added in the US) and GRASGenerally Recognised As Safe designation that is used by the American Food and Drug Administration for food that is considered safe by experts. (Generally Recognised as Safe)
• EU - European Commission
• UK - FSA (Food Standards Agency)
• Australia & NZ - FSANZFood Standards Australia New Zealand - a bi-national government agency responsible for developing and administering the Australia and New Zealand Food Standards Code. (Food Standards Australia & NZ)

How do they decide if an additive is safe?

The effects of food additives are initially studied by feeding large doses over a period of time to at least two kinds of animals. These studies are generally commissioned on behalf of a company that wants to use or sell the additives. Results are submitted for review by government regulatory bodies who recommend safe dietary levels, and may require further clinical trials or evidence.

Approval by a regulatory body does not guarantee that an additive will not cause adverse reactions for some individuals. There has also been some debate on the interaction between combinations of additives which have been approved for use separately.

Can I avoid all food additives?

It's nearly impossible to avoid eating food without any additives, but keep in mind that many additives are considered safe to consume. For example, E300: Vitamin C is often used as an anti-oxidantActs as a preservative by inhibiting the effects of oxygen on food. and preservativeUsed to prevent spoilage of food by inhibiting or preventing the growth of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms. .. and also as a common vitamin supplement.

The key to safe consumption is to moderate the unnecessary additives in your diet, and avoid additives that have been known to cause adverse reactions.