The antioxidant additives

Just take a look at the labels of the food to realize the amount of food additives that we can find in food, and food products and beverages, which we consume with some regularity. Thus, for example, we can find acidulants, dyes, emulsifiers, stabilizers, preservatives and antioxidants.

As its name suggests, the additives they are substances or compounds that are added to food and certain beverages with the aim of improving their flavor, aroma and appearance, or to avoid the natural rot of them and thus extend the expiration period.

What are antioxidant additives?

The antioxidant additives They have an action very similar to that exerted by preservative additives, since they are additives that avoid rot by depositing oxygen from the air.

This translates into a very simple function: they have a stabilizing action on the internal composition of the food, fighting the signs of oxidative rot, determined by oxygen.

With all this, without antioxidants the food would lose its content in vitamin A and C. On the other hand, the fats are rancid and in turn -by action of the polyphenoloxidase enzyme- would produce color alterations, especially in vegetables as well as in the fruits.

What are the effects of antioxidant additives on health?

The truth is that, for the most part, the antioxidant additives currently allowed in the food industry are certainly identical to natural substances, not expecting any type of negative effect on health by its use.

Of course, certain antioxidants are not chemically related to the natural components of food, so they can have a harmful action, being responsible for the emergence of different allergic reactions.

In what foods can we find antioxidant additives?

  • Soups and broths
  • Roast and spice sauces.
  • Dry potato products.
  • Appetizers based on cereals.
  • Masses of marzipan, and similar products.
  • Peanut masses and derived products.
  • Chewing gum.
  • Certain aromas.

Image | wwnorm This article is published for informational purposes only. You can not and should not replace the consultation with a Nutritionist. We advise you to consult your trusted Nutritionist.

[5.2] Food additives - Antioxidants (March 2024)