Explore the FDA\'s website at http://www.fda.gov/ and search for food additives

Question

Explore the FDA's website at http://www.fda.gov/ and search for food additives (this should be an item in the Search drop down menu). Read through the question and answer (Q & A) section at the top of the page that discusses food additives, what they are, etc. It also lists many of the popular food additives, names, functions, etc. Pick five additives of your choice and find them on the labels of foods you have in your home. For example, yellow dyes are a common additive. Include in your research from this website whether the food additives you chose are linked to or cause food allergies. Include your references used.

Explanation / Answer

1)Acacia - used as emulsifier Emulsifiers are among the most frequently used types of food additives. They are used for many reasons.

Emulsifiers can help to make a food appealing. The example of the mayonnaise without the emulsifier shows how unappealing it would be if the oil and water separated before it was used. Emulsifiers have a big effect on the structure and texture of many foods. They are used to aid in the processing of foods and also to help maintain quality and freshness. In low fat spreads, emulsifiers can help to prevent the growth of moulds which would happen if the oil and fat separated. The table shows foods in which emulsifiers are most commonly used.

2)Acetone - The food additive acetone peroxides is used in flour, and in bread and rolls .

3)Agar-agar-Agar is flavorless and odorless, which makes it an excellent thickening agent for cooking. In some Asian cultures, agar is a common ingredient in soups and jellies. Unlike animal-derived gelatin, agar can be used as a vegetarian and vegan thickening source. This means agar can be used in pies, puddings, desserts, jell-o, marshmallows, gummy bears and jelly beans for vegetarians and vegans.

4)BHA-Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) is an antioxidant consisting of a mixture of two isomeric organic compounds, 2-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole and 3-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole. It is prepared from 4-methoxyphenol and isobutylene. It is a waxy solid used as a food additive with the E number E320. The primary use for BHA is as an antioxidant and preservative in food, food packaging, animal feed, cosmetics, rubber, and petroleum products.[3] BHA also is commonly used in medicines, such as isotretinoin, lovastatin, and simvastatin, among others.

5)Biotin-For healthy adults who are 19 years and older, The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine recommends an AI of 35 mcg of biotin per day. For those between 14 and 18 years of age, an AI of 35 mcg is recommended. These requirements are usually fulfilled through a normal diet. Studies by The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine determined that the average person consumes about 40 to 60 mcg of biotin daily. Egg yolk, liver, avocado and salmon are among the richest sources of biotin

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse E
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.