In the levels commonly used, food additives are safe for the vast majority of people. However, just as some people are allergic to certain foods like eggs or wheat, a small percentage of the population may have a reaction to specific food additives. Only a certified specialist can tell you if you are allergic to a substance in food. Reading food labels and requesting additional information from manufacturers should help you avoid substances or foods to which you are sensitive. Summary Food additives provide Americans with a wide range of attractive and tasty foods that can be stored for extended periods of time.
Additives also make possible convenience foods that can be rapidly and easily prepared.
In the quantities used, food additives are safe for most people. Product labels list most of the food additives present. Thus, people with sensitivities to specific additives can usually avoid problems by carefully checking the packaging. Some food additives could be eliminated, but we would have to make sacrifices in the quality, quantity, availability, and price of our food. References Andrews, S. L. and Mason, A. C. 1987.