More than 3000 additives can be used in food processing to improve the safety, appearance, flavour and shelf life of foods. Additives must be approved by Food Standards Australia and New Zealand before they can be used, but some cause adverse reactions in certain people. Check labels carefully before you buy.

Focus on food additives

1. All food additives must be included in the ingredient list found on product packages.
2. Responses to food additives vary between individuals: one person may tolerate a substance that makes someone else is quite ill.
3. Check food labels carefully of you are vegetarian or vegan. Many of the common food additives, such as emulsifiers, gelatin, glycerol and natural flavors are derived from animals.
4. Avoid buying products with a long list of additives. These products are likely to be processed and may have low nutritional value.
5. Be aware that fast foods often contain synthetic flavors that mimic natural ones. To avoid these, base your diet on fresh foods such as fruit, vegetables, legumes, nuts and lean meat.
6. Watch out for MonoSodium Glutamate (MSG), a flavor enhancer often included in salad dressings, soups and potato chips. Its use allows the manufacture to reduce the amount of other ingredients.
7. If you want to eliminate any risk of the potential affects of chemicals on your health, try to buy certified organic produce only.

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