Labeling
It is particularly important to note that not all products labeled as free of additives are actually free from additives, because for alcoholic beverages with a minimum alcohol content of 1.2%, in honey, coffee extract and cocoa products, the additives do not have to be declared. Fundamentally, E-numbers can be colorants, preservatives, antioxidants, emulsifiers, stabilizers, acidulants, gelling and thickening agents, various food additives or coating agents.
Colorants
These additives can be differentiated by the E-numbers, which are categorized from E100 - E999. All E-numbers marked with a number from E100 - E180 serve to keep products fresh and make them appear fresh. These E-numbers, from 100-180 are also referred to as colorants, which can be either natural or artificial. Colorants of natural origin, i.e., plant-based, include examples such as betanin and chlorophyll. In contrast stand the artificially or synthetically produced colorants, which have the worst reputation among all additives because they can cause allergies. E-number 150 is particularly common. Behind this number hides caramel, which is obtained from heated sugar.
Especially these colorants or azo dyes, found in food, cosmetics and medications, are controversial food additives. They can cause allergies and even promote cancer.
Preservatives
E-numbers marked with the numbers E200- E297 belong to preservatives. These E-numbers fundamentally serve to prevent harmful bacteria and fungal infection of the food. However, it should be noted that the E-numbers E210- E233 are not tolerable for all people and can therefore lead to headaches, diarrhea or allergies.
Antioxidants
To ensure the shelf life of food, antioxidants marked with the E-numbers E300- E321 are often used. These antioxidants prevent reactions with oxygen in the air. The E-numbers 300- 309 represent natural substances. In contrast, the E-numbers from 310- 321 are of artificial origin. Emulsifiers, stabilizers, acidulants, gelling agents or also thickening agents can often be found in pudding etc. These additives are marked with the E-numbers 322-418. Today, these additives can be found in almost all foods. Not all of these ingredients are harmful to the body; however, they should be avoided as much as possible because the body quickly gets accustomed to these artificial flavorings etc.