Artificial Additives in Food Manufacturing

As a food manufacturer, we have the responsibility to be absolutely transparent about the ingredients and supplier we use. It is important to us, to touch also sensitive topics such as artificial additives. This article will give you a quick overview about the history of artificial additives in food manufacturing and how they have evolved over the years.

We do not use preservatives in our products, and we refrain from using any type of artificial additives as well as GMO ingredients.

Artificial additives have been a part of the food industry for over a century, playing a crucial role in enhancing the taste, texture, appearance, and shelf life of food products. With the rapid growth of the food industry and the increasing demand for processed and packaged foods, the use of artificial additives has only increased over time.

The First Artificial Additive

The first artificial food additive, sodium benzoate, was used in the late 19th century. It was initially used as a preservative to prevent the spoilage of food and beverages, such as soft drinks and fruit juices. Sodium benzoate was followed by other preservatives, such as calcium propionate and potassium sorbate, which helped to extend the shelf life of baked goods, dairy products, and processed meats.

In the early 20th century, the use of artificial additives expanded to include artificial colors and flavors. These additives were used to enhance the appearance and taste of food products, making them more appealing to consumers. The first artificial color, FD&C Red No. 2, was introduced in 1907, and it was followed by a range of other artificial colors, including blues, greens, and yellows. Artificial flavors were also developed, allowing food manufacturers to create a wide range of products with unique and appealing tastes.

The use of artificial additives continued to grow in the mid-20th century, with the introduction of new types of additives, such as emulsifiers, stabilizers, and thickeners. These additives helped to improve the texture and consistency of food products, making them more appealing to consumers. The 1950s and 1960s saw the introduction of a range of new artificial additives, including high-fructose corn syrup, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and aspartame.

High-fructose corn syrup, a sweetener made from cornstarch, quickly became popular in the food industry due to its low cost and sweet taste. It was used in a wide range of food products, including soft drinks, baked goods, and processed foods. However, the use of high-fructose corn syrup has been criticized in recent years due to its links to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer that is widely used in the food industry. It was first introduced in the early 20th century and has since become a staple ingredient in many processed foods, including soups, sauces, and snacks. Although MSG has been deemed safe by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), some people have reported experiencing side effects, such as headaches, chest pain, and flushing, after consuming products containing MSG.

Aspartame is a low-calorie artificial sweetener that was first introduced in the 1980s. It is used in a wide range of food products, including diet soft drinks, sugar-free gum, and sugar-free candies. Although aspartame has been deemed safe by the USFDA, there have been concerns about its safety, particularly in regard to its potential link to cancer.

Artificial flavors are used to enhance the taste of food products and create unique and appealing flavors. Artificial flavors are used in a wide range of food products, including soft drinks, snacks, and baked goods. While artificial flavors have been deemed safe by the USFDA, some people have reported experiencing side effects, such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness, after consuming products containing artificial flavors.

Another prominent additive is artificial colors. They are used to enhance the appearance of food products and make them more appealing to consumers. Examples of artificial colors include FD&C Red No. 2, FD&C Blue No. 1, and FD&C Yellow No. 5. Artificial colors have been linked to various health problems, including hyperactivity in children, and as a result, some food manufacturers are now using natural alternatives, such as beet juice, turmeric, and paprika, to color their products.

Recent Developments

In recent years, there has been increasing concern about the safety of artificial additives in food, leading to a growing demand for natural and organic food products. Many consumers are now choosing to avoid processed foods and are opting for foods that are free from artificial additives. In response, food manufacturers have started to develop alternative products that are free from artificial additives, such as natural sweeteners, natural colors, and natural flavors.

However, it is important to clarify that fermentation is not considered an artificial additive, as it is a natural process that has been used for thousands of years to preserve and enhance the flavor of food. Fermentation involves the use of bacteria or yeast to break down carbohydrates and convert them into alcohol or organic acids. This process creates new flavors, textures, and aromas in food products and also extends their shelf life by preserving them. Fermented foods are generally considered healthy and beneficial due to the beneficial bacteria they contain, which can improve gut health and boost the immune system. Examples of fermented food products include bread, cheese, yogurt, wine, beer, and tempeh. Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian food made from soybeans that have been fermented with a specific type of bacteria, Rhizopus oligosporus. Tempeh is particularly healthy, and a good source of protein, fiber and is also rich in vitamins and minerals, such as manganese, phosphorus, and magnesium. Tempeh is often considered a healthier alternative to meat, as it is low in fat, high in protein, and free from artificial additives.

The safety and potential side effects of artificial additives are a subject of ongoing scientific research and debate. Additionally, individual tolerance levels to these additives can vary, and some people may be more sensitive to their potential health effects than others.

While some artificial additives have been approved by regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), and are considered safe for human consumption, others have been linked to potential health concerns. Here are some potential side effects that have been associated with the consumption of certain artificial additives:

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to certain artificial additives, such as food coloring, flavorings, or preservatives. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include itching, swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing.
• Hyperactivity: Some studies have found a link between the consumption of artificial food coloring and increased hyperactivity in children. However, the evidence for this link is mixed, and further research is needed to confirm these findings.
• Endocrine disruption: Some artificial additives, such as BHA and BHT, have been linked to endocrine disruption, which can affect the body’s hormone levels and potentially lead to health problems.
• Weight gain: Some artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose, have been linked to weight gain and an increased risk of obesity. However, the evidence for this link is mixed, and further research is needed to confirm these findings.

It is important to note that the potential side effects of artificial additives can vary depending on the specific additive and the individual consuming it. Additionally, some people may be more sensitive to the potential health effects of artificial additives than others. Consumers are encouraged to educate themselves about the potential health risks associated with artificial additives and make informed choices when it comes to their food.

Conclusion

In conclusion, artificial additives have been a part of the food industry for over a century, playing a crucial role in enhancing the taste, texture, appearance, and shelf life of food products. However, as consumers become more aware of the potential health risks associated with artificial additives, the demand for natural and organic food products is increasing. This shift in consumer preferences has prompted food manufacturers to focus on developing alternative products that are free from artificial additives. While the use of artificial additives may continue in the food industry, it is likely that there will be a continued focus on using more natural and safe alternatives in the future.

Check your food label and make an informed decision about your diet and the food you consume.

Please check our brands and explore our wide range of products without artificial additives or preservatives. We’re a fully certified food manufacturing business based in Northern Bangkok, and we produce our own brands incl. a growing range of Ready-to-Eat products as well as plant-based products. We also do private label manufacturing for Australian, Thai and US companies. Let’s chat today and see how we can assist you.