Food ingredient safety guide

Researched guides to the additives people ask about most — what they are, why they're used, what the science says and where they're allowed.

Red 40

Legal in major markets, but linked to behavior changes in some children.

Banned in EU food since 2022, still allowed in the US, Canada and Australia.

Approved worldwide, but labeled a 'possible' carcinogen by WHO's IARC in 2023.

Approved everywhere, but questions remain about gut inflammation.

Safe at normal levels, but can form benzene when mixed with vitamin C.

One of the best-studied preservatives, with no cancer link at food levels.

Legal everywhere, but can trigger reactions and carries an EU warning label.