Category: Food additives

Carrageenan, a food additive extracted from red seaweed, has been used for centuries and is found in a vast number of processed foods today. Its importance lies in its unique gelling, thickening, and stabilizing properties, though its overall impact on human health remains a subject of scientific debate.

According to the FDA, certain red dyes were considered safe for consumption for years, yet recent studies and regulatory actions, such as the 2025 ban on Red Dye 3, have amplified public concern. Here’s what you need to know about what does red dye do to your body.

Derived from the cochineal insect, carmine is a natural red food and cosmetic dye that has been used for centuries. For the majority of the population, carmine is considered safe for consumption and topical use. However, for a small subset of individuals, what does carmine do to your body is cause allergic reactions, ranging from mild to severe, including life-threatening anaphylaxis.

According to research from the National Institutes of Health, the majority of the artificial blue #1 dye consumed is not absorbed by the body but instead excreted as waste. This synthetic coloring, also known as Brilliant Blue FCF, is used for aesthetic purposes in foods and drinks, but concerns remain about its potential effects on human health, especially in children.

Nearly 99% of all citric acid used as a food additive is manufactured using a fungus, not sourced from fruit. Understanding **what are the negative side effects of citric acid** is crucial for health-conscious consumers, especially when it's so common in processed foods.

Sodium benzoate was one of the first preservatives approved by the FDA, and it is widely used today to prevent microbial spoilage. But **what is sodium benzoate?** It is a synthetic chemical additive with a controversial reputation, sparking questions about its overall health impact.