Food additives are substances added to food to preserve flavor or enhance its taste and appearance. More often than not, food additives are often heavily disregarded, as these chemicals have become essential in the process, life and taste of the majority of foods on the shelves of supermarkets. However, the use of food additives often raises some questions.
What types of additives are used to make vegetables in salad bars and grocery stores stay green and fresh looking?What effect do they have on consumers?
The soft, shiny exterior of tomatoes or the lush, green texture of peas and leafy veggies might tempt one’s taste buds and their “freshness” might appeal to the eyes, but there lies a toxic concoction of hazardous chemicals. “The consumption of raw fruits and vegetables has become a paradox. The rampant use of chemicals contravenes their nutritional benefits.”(TheHealthSite, 2012). Chemicals such as copper sulfate, rhodamine oxide, malachite green and the deadly carbide are the ones most commonly used to accentuate coloration and freshness. “These are neurotoxic (affecting the brain) causing Alzheimer’s and dementia and are also carcinogenic" (TheHealthSite, 2012)
How do these additives benefit the retailer?
By adding additives, it can benefit retailers in the sense of reputation ie. providing fresh, good tasting products that not only has a long product life, but its taste does not deteriorate and also financial stance, since consumers are more likely to buy products from reputable manufacturers. In addition, food additives are inexpensive chemicals that can enhance the products attributes, as well as prevent food-bourne illnesses. (Bishop, 2014) Fortified and enriched foods may have added fiber, vitamins or minerals to help consumers maintain a healthy diet. This is one of the most important benefits of food. additives for populations that may have deficiencies in their diet.