Food additives have been around for centuries to enhance flavour and improve taste and appearance. Some of the first additives ever used were salt, sugar and vinegar. In fact, many substances used as food additives also occur naturally, such as vitamin C or ascorbic acid found in fruit, and lecithin, found in egg yolks, soya beans, peanuts and maize.
Now in the 21st century, food additives play an important part in our food supply making sure that our food is safe and meets our needs. They can be used to:
- improve the keeping quality or stability of a food,
- preserve the food to extend its shelf life,
- improve the taste or appearance of a processed food.
It’s important to note that food additives are only ever used in processed foods in relatively small amounts. Even more importantly, they are rigorously evaluated by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), and are strictly controlled and continually evaluated for their safety.
All the ingredients The Coca-Cola Company uses in its beverages are safe, suitable and in compliance with local government requirements. To learn more about additives visit the FSANZ website.
