Unit 17. Food Additives

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Explain what food additives are and why they are used
- Identify the main types of food additives
- Understand the difference between natural and synthetic additives
- Use Gerunds correctly

Theory

Food additives are substances that are added to food to improve its taste, appearance, texture, shelf life or nutritional value. They are used in small amounts and must be safe for consumers.

There are different types of food additives: preservatives (prevent spoilage), colourings (improve appearance), flavourings (improve taste), emulsifiers (help mix ingredients), thickeners and stabilizers.

Some additives are natural (for example, salt, sugar, vinegar, pectin), while others are synthetic (made in laboratories). Both types are carefully controlled by food safety authorities.

The use of additives is regulated by law. Each additive has an E-number in Europe. Consumers can find information about additives on the product label. Modern food technology tries to reduce the use of synthetic additives and use more natural alternatives.

Key Terms

food additives, preservatives, colourings, flavourings, emulsifiers, thickeners, stabilizers, natural additives, synthetic additives, E-number, shelf life, food label

Exercise

1. Answer the questions:
1. What are food additives?
2. Name four types of food additives.
3. What is the difference between natural and synthetic additives?
4. Why do food companies use additives?

2. Complete the sentences with gerunds:
1. ________ (use) additives helps to extend shelf life.
2. Companies are interested in ________ (reduce) synthetic additives.
3. ________ (read) the label is important for consumers.

Mini Quiz

1. Food additives are used to improve ________.
a) only price
b) taste, appearance and shelf life
c) only weight

2. Preservatives are used to prevent ________.
a) colour
b) spoilage
c) taste

3. In Europe, additives have ________ numbers.
a) A
b) E
c) B