Additive & Allergen Encyclopedia

Synthetic color linked to thyroid disruption; banned in cosmetics but allowed in food.

Forms carcinogenic compounds. Banned in EU, Canada, and many countries.

Accumulates in body fat, causes neurological effects. FDA banned effective August 2024.

WHO classified as possible human carcinogen. Causes liver damage.

Liver damage, blood clotting issues. Tumors in animal studies.

Liver enlargement, immune damage. Banned in EU.

Breaks down into carcinogens. Used in yoga mats/shoe rubber.

Heart disease, banned in US 2020. No safe level of consumption.

Sensitivity reactions: headaches, nausea, chest pain in susceptible individuals.

Obesity, diabetes, fatty liver, metabolic syndrome link.

Forms carcinogenic nitrosamines when heated with proteins.

Hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions, cancer link in animals.

Hyperactivity, allergic reactions, asthma. EU warning required.

Breaks down to methanol. Neurological symptoms possible.

Digestive inflammation, immune system effects, intestinal damage.

Forms benzene (carcinogen) when combined with Vitamin C.

Natural acid from citrus. Generally safe, may cause tooth erosion.

Natural antioxidant vitamin. Beneficial but may form benzene with benzoates.

Derived from natural sources. Generally safe but composition varies.

Prevalence: 2-3% of children, 0.1-0.5% of adults. Severity: life-threatening

Prevalence: 1-2% of children, 0.1-0.2% of adults. Severity: life-threatening

Prevalence: 0.4% of adults, less common in children. Severity: life-threatening

Prevalence: 2.3% of adults, most common adult food allergy. Severity: life-threatening

Prevalence: 1% of population, often lifelong. Severity: life-threatening

Prevalence: 1.4-3% of children, 1.3% of adults. Severity: life-threatening

Prevalence: 0.4-1% of children, less common in adults. Severity: severe

Prevalence: 0.4% of children, less common in adults. Severity: moderate

Prevalence: 0.1-0.2% of population, increasing. Severity: life-threatening

Prevalence: 3-10% of asthmatics, 1% general population. Severity: severe

Prevalence: 0.05% in North America, higher in Europe. Severity: moderate

Iodine-containing synthetic food dye that provides bright red coloring. Extensively studied for thyroid and neurological effects.

Oxidizing agent used to strengthen dough and improve bread texture. Classified as possible human carcinogen.

Vegetable oil modified with bromine atoms. Used to keep citrus flavoring oils suspended in beverages.

Petroleum-derived antioxidant preservative. WHO classified as possible human carcinogen.

Artificially created trans fats formed by adding hydrogen to vegetable oils. No safe level of consumption.

Sodium salt of glutamic acid. Enhances umami flavor but can cause sensitivity reactions in some individuals.

Corn-derived liquid sweetener with varying glucose-to-fructose ratios. Linked to metabolic disorders.

Seaweed extract used for texture. Controversial due to potential inflammatory effects.

Naturally occurring acid found in citrus fruits. Widely used as preservative and flavor enhancer.

Essential vitamin and powerful antioxidant. Generally beneficial but can interact with other additives.