Ingredient Glossary A-Z — 502+ Food Additives Explained | CheckIt AI

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Ingredient Glossary

A comprehensive guide to 502+ food additives, preservatives, sweeteners, colorants, contaminants, and ingredients found in everyday products.

Browse by topic: The Complete Guide to Seed Oils in Food | Artificial Colors in Food: The Complete Guide | Food Preservatives: Safe vs Dangerous Guide | Added Sugars in Food: The Hidden Sugar Guide | Ultra-Processed Food (UPF): The Complete Guide | Artificial Sweeteners: Safe or Dangerous? | Food Dyes & Colorants: Natural vs Synthetic Guide | Heavy Metals & Contaminants in Food

Added Sugars (14)

🔶 High Fructose Corn Syrup — A liquid sweetener used extensively in sodas and processed foods. Linked to obes...
⚠️ Maltodextrin — A processed starch used as a thickener and filler. Has a very high glycemic inde...
⚠️ Dextrose — A simple sugar derived from corn. Used in baked goods, candy, and IV fluids. Rap...
⚠️ Corn Syrup — A liquid sugar from corn starch used in candy, sauces, and baked goods. Contribu...
⚠️ Invert Sugar — A mixture of glucose and fructose used in confectionery. Sweeter than table suga...
⚠️ Turbinado Sugar — Partially refined cane sugar marketed as natural. Nutritionally identical to whi...
🔶 Agave Nectar — A sweetener from agave plants. Very high in fructose (up to 90%), worse than HFC...
⚠️ Brown Rice Syrup — A sweetener from brown rice starch. High glycemic index and may contain arsenic ...
🔶 Added Sugars — Sugars added during food processing. Americans consume 17 teaspoons daily vs 6-9...
⚠️ Coconut Sugar — Sweetener from coconut palm sap. Lower glycemic than table sugar but still high ...
⚠️ Maple Syrup — Natural sweetener from maple tree sap. Contains manganese and zinc. Still a conc...
⚠️ Honey — Natural sweetener with antimicrobial properties. Raw honey contains enzymes and ...
✅ Molasses — Byproduct of sugar refining. Blackstrap molasses is rich in iron, calcium, and p...
✅ Date Sugar — Ground dried dates used as a whole-food sweetener. Contains fiber and minerals u...

Allergens (18)

🔶 Celiac Disease — Autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten in wheat, barley, and rye. Affects 1% of...
⚠️ Gluten — A protein in wheat, barley, and rye that gives dough elasticity. Harmful to celi...
⚠️ Casein — The main protein in cow's milk. Common allergen. Found in many foods labeled as ...
⚠️ Whey — A milk protein separated during cheese-making. Common allergen for dairy-sensiti...
🔶 Egg Allergy — One of the most common childhood food allergies. Eggs are in many unexpected foo...
🔴 Peanut Allergy — One of the most dangerous food allergies, often causing anaphylaxis. Affects abo...
🔴 Tree Nut Allergy — Allergy to almonds, walnuts, cashews, etc. Cross-contamination common. Usually l...
🔴 Shellfish Allergy — Most common adult-onset food allergy. Includes shrimp, crab, and lobster. Often ...
🔶 Soy Allergy — Common childhood allergy. Soy is in countless processed foods. Most children out...
🔶 Wheat Allergy — An immune response to wheat proteins (different from celiac). Common in children...
🔶 Sesame Allergy — The newest major allergen. Mandatory US labeling since 2023 (FASTER Act). Rising...
🔶 Sulfite Sensitivity — Adverse reaction to sulfites in wine, dried fruit, and shrimp. Affects 5-10% of ...
🔴 Alpha-Gal Syndrome — Meat allergy caused by tick bites. Delayed reaction to red meat, dairy, and gela...
⚠️ Food Intolerance — Difficulty digesting certain foods (unlike allergies, no immune response). Inclu...
⚠️ Lactose Intolerance — Inability to digest milk sugar (lactose). Affects 68% of world population. Cause...
⚠️ Fructose Malabsorption — Difficulty absorbing fructose in the small intestine. Causes bloating, gas, and ...
🔴 Casein Allergy — Immune reaction to milk protein casein. More persistent than whey allergy. Found...
🔴 Fish Allergy — Allergy to finfish proteins. Usually lifelong. Different from shellfish allergy....

Anti Caking (9)

✅ Silicon Dioxide — An anti-caking agent used in powdered foods, spices, and supplements. Naturally ...
✅ Calcium Silicate — An anti-caking agent in table salt and powdered foods. Generally recognized as s...
✅ Magnesium Stearate — A flow agent used in supplements and tablets. Controversial but generally recogn...
⚠️ Talc (E553b) — An anti-caking agent in rice and chewing gum. Concerns about asbestos contaminat...
✅ E551 (Silicon Dioxide) — EU code for silicon dioxide. Anti-caking agent in powders. Very safe....
⚠️ E553 (Talc) — EU code for talc. Anti-caking agent. Asbestos contamination concerns....
✅ Sodium Ferrocyanide (E535) — An anti-caking agent in table salt. Despite cyanide in the name, the compound is...
✅ Tricalcium Phosphate — An anti-caking agent and calcium supplement in powdered foods, spices, and suppl...
✅ Kaolin (E559) — A clay mineral used as anti-caking agent in food and as coating in confectionery...

Artificial Sweeteners (30)

⚠️ Aspartame — An artificial sweetener found in diet sodas and sugar-free products. Controversi...
⚠️ Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K) — An artificial sweetener used in diet beverages and sugar-free products. Limited ...
⚠️ Sucralose — A zero-calorie artificial sweetener (Splenda). Recent studies suggest it may aff...
⚠️ Erythritol — A sugar alcohol used as a low-calorie sweetener. Recent research linked it to in...
✅ Stevia — A natural zero-calorie sweetener from the stevia plant. Generally considered saf...
✅ Monk Fruit (Luo Han Guo) — A natural zero-calorie sweetener from monk fruit. 150-200x sweeter than sugar. N...
⚠️ Sorbitol — A sugar alcohol used in sugar-free gum and candy. Can cause bloating, gas, and d...
✅ Xylitol — A sugar alcohol used in sugar-free gum that helps prevent cavities. Toxic to dog...
✅ Mannitol — A sugar alcohol found in sugar-free products. Laxative effect at high doses. Low...
⚠️ Saccharin — The oldest artificial sweetener (Sweet'N Low). Was once linked to bladder cancer...
✅ Neotame — An artificial sweetener 7,000-13,000x sweeter than sugar. FDA-approved. Similar ...
⚠️ Advantame — The newest FDA-approved artificial sweetener, 20,000x sweeter than sugar. Limite...
⚠️ Maltitol — A sugar alcohol used in sugar-free chocolate and candy. High glycemic index for ...
✅ Isomalt — A sugar alcohol used in hard candies. Low glycemic impact but may cause digestiv...
✅ Allulose — A rare sugar with 70% sweetness of sucrose but only 10% of calories. New FDA-app...
✅ Tagatose — A natural sweetener with 92% less calories than sugar. Prebiotic properties. Lim...
⚠️ E420 (Sorbitol) — EU code for sorbitol. Sugar alcohol sweetener. Laxative at high doses....
⚠️ E950 (Acesulfame K) — EU code for acesulfame potassium. Artificial sweetener with limited long-term da...
⚠️ E951 (Aspartame) — EU code for aspartame. Controversial artificial sweetener classified as 'possibl...
⚠️ E955 (Sucralose) — EU code for sucralose (Splenda). May affect gut bacteria and insulin response....
✅ E960 (Steviol Glycosides) — EU code for stevia extract. Natural zero-calorie sweetener. Very safe....
✅ E422 (Glycerol) — A sugar alcohol used as humectant and sweetener. Found in confectionery. Very sa...
⚠️ E952 (Cyclamate) — An artificial sweetener banned in US since 1969 but used in EU. 30x sweeter than...
✅ E953 (Isomalt) — EU code for isomalt. Sugar alcohol in hard candies. Low glycemic but laxative....
⚠️ E965 (Maltitol) — EU code for maltitol. Sugar alcohol with high glycemic index. Strong laxative....
⚠️ E966 (Lactitol) — A sugar alcohol from lactose. Used in sugar-free candy. Strong laxative effect....
✅ E967 (Xylitol) — EU code for xylitol. Sugar alcohol that fights cavities. Toxic to dogs....
⚠️ E968 (Erythritol) — EU code for erythritol. Zero-calorie sugar alcohol. Cardiovascular risk concerns...
⚠️ Sugar Alcohols — Reduced-calorie sweeteners (sorbitol, xylitol, erythritol). Not fully absorbed. ...
⚠️ High-Intensity Sweeteners — Sweeteners hundreds to thousands of times sweeter than sugar. Includes aspartame...

Coatings (7)

✅ Carnauba Wax — A natural wax from palm leaves used to coat candy, gum, and pills. Also used in ...
✅ Shellac — A resin secreted by lac bugs used to coat candy, pills, and fruit. Not vegan. Ge...
✅ Beeswax — A natural wax from honeybees used to coat cheese and confectionery. Not vegan. V...
✅ E570 (Stearic Acid) — A naturally occurring fatty acid used as anti-caking and glazing agent. Very saf...
✅ E901 (Beeswax) — EU code for beeswax. Natural glazing agent for candy and fruit. Not vegan....
✅ E903 (Carnauba Wax) — EU code for carnauba wax. Natural palm leaf wax. Glazing agent. Very safe....
✅ E904 (Shellac) — EU code for shellac. Insect resin coating for candy and pills. Not vegan....

Emulsifiers (28)

✅ Soy Lecithin — An emulsifier derived from soybeans used in chocolate, baked goods, and suppleme...
⚠️ Polysorbate 80 — An emulsifier used in ice cream and cosmetics. May affect gut barrier function a...
✅ Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate (SSL) — An emulsifier and dough conditioner used in bread, cakes, and snacks. Generally ...
⚠️ Mono- and Diglycerides — Common emulsifiers in bread, peanut butter, and ice cream. May contain trans fat...
⚠️ DATEM — Diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono-diglycerides. An emulsifier in bread. Gene...
⚠️ Sodium Caseinate — A protein derived from milk casein. Used in non-dairy creamers and processed mea...
🔴 Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) — An emulsifier in citrus-flavored sodas. Contains bromine. Banned in EU and Japan...
✅ Lecithin — An emulsifier from soy, eggs, or sunflower. Essential for cell membranes. Genera...
✅ Sunflower Lecithin — A non-GMO, non-allergen emulsifier alternative to soy lecithin. Extracted from s...
✅ Polyglycerol Esters — Emulsifiers used in chocolate, margarine, and baked goods. Synthetic but general...
✅ Dipotassium Phosphate — An emulsifier and stabilizer used in non-dairy creamers and instant pudding. Gen...
✅ E322 (Lecithin) — EU code for lecithin. Natural emulsifier from soy, eggs, or sunflower. Very safe...
⚠️ E471 (Mono- and Diglycerides) — EU code for common emulsifiers. May contain hidden trans fats. Used in bread and...
⚠️ E432 (Polysorbate 20) — A synthetic emulsifier derived from sorbitol. Used in baked goods and ice cream....
⚠️ E433 (Polysorbate 80) — EU code for polysorbate 80. Synthetic emulsifier. Gut barrier concerns....
⚠️ E435 (Polysorbate 60) — A synthetic emulsifier used in whipped cream and cake mixes. Gut microbiome conc...
✅ E442 (Ammonium Phosphatide) — An emulsifier used in chocolate as a cheaper lecithin alternative. Generally saf...
✅ E470 (Fatty Acid Salts) — Calcium, sodium, or magnesium salts of fatty acids. Anti-caking and emulsifying ...
✅ E472a (Acetic Acid Esters) — Emulsifiers made from acetic acid and mono-diglycerides. Used in bread. Generall...
✅ E472b (Lactic Acid Esters) — Emulsifiers from lactic acid and fats. Used in whipped toppings. Generally safe....
⚠️ E472e (DATEM) — EU code for DATEM. Dough conditioner in bread. May contain hidden trans fats....
✅ E473 (Sucrose Esters) — Emulsifiers made from sugar and fatty acids. Used in bakery and confectionery....
✅ E475 (Polyglycerol Esters) — EU code for polyglycerol esters. Synthetic emulsifiers. Generally safe....
✅ E476 (PGPR) — Polyglycerol polyricinoleate. Used in chocolate as a flow agent. Cheaper than co...
✅ E481 (Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate) — EU code for SSL. Bread dough conditioner and emulsifier. Generally safe....
✅ E491 (Sorbitan Monostearate) — A synthetic emulsifier in chocolate and cakes. Used with polysorbates....
✅ E999 (Quillaia Extract) — A natural foaming agent from quillay bark. Used in drinks. Generally safe....
🔴 BVO (Brominated Vegetable Oil) — Banned by FDA in 2024 after being used in citrus sodas for decades. Contains bro...

Enzymes (9)

✅ E1103 (Invertase) — An enzyme that converts sucrose to glucose and fructose. Used in candy centers....
⚠️ E1105 (Lysozyme) — A natural enzyme from egg whites. Used in cheese to prevent late blowing. Egg al...
✅ Rennet — An enzyme from calf stomachs used in cheesemaking. Vegetarian and microbial alte...
⚠️ Transglutaminase (Meat Glue) — An enzyme used to bind meat pieces together. Creates uniform steaks from scraps....
✅ Lipase — A fat-splitting enzyme used in cheese ripening and flavor development. Naturally...
✅ Protease — Protein-breaking enzymes used in meat tenderizing, cheese, and baking. Generally...
✅ Amylase — Starch-breaking enzyme used in bread, brewing, and corn syrup production. Natura...
✅ Papain — A protein-digesting enzyme from papaya. Used as a meat tenderizer. Can cause all...
✅ Bromelain — A protein-digesting enzyme from pineapple. Used in meat tenderizing and suppleme...

Fibers (4)

✅ Inulin — A prebiotic fiber from chicory root. Used to add fiber to processed foods. May c...
✅ Psyllium Husk — A soluble fiber supplement used in cereals and health foods. Excellent for diges...
✅ Resistant Starch — A type of starch that resists digestion and acts as prebiotic fiber. Found in gr...
✅ E1200 (Polydextrose) — A synthetic fiber and sugar replacer. Low calorie bulking agent. May cause bloat...

Flavor Enhancers (16)

✅ MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) — A flavor enhancer used in savory foods and Asian cuisine. Generally recognized a...
✅ Disodium Inosinate — A flavor enhancer often used alongside MSG. Derived from animal or plant sources...
✅ Disodium Guanylate — A flavor enhancer paired with MSG in snacks and soups. Derived from fish or yeas...
⚠️ Natural Flavors — Umbrella term for flavoring substances derived from plant or animal sources. Can...
⚠️ Artificial Flavors — Chemically synthesized compounds that mimic natural tastes. FDA-approved but com...
⚠️ Hydrolyzed Protein — Proteins broken down into amino acids for flavor enhancement. May contain free g...
⚠️ Autolyzed Yeast Extract — A flavor enhancer containing free glutamic acid (natural MSG). Used in soups, sn...
⚠️ Smoke Flavor (Liquid Smoke) — Condensed smoke used in BBQ sauces and processed meats. Contains PAHs linked to ...
✅ Vanillin — Synthetic vanilla flavoring used in chocolate, ice cream, and baked goods. Much ...
✅ Ethyl Vanillin — A synthetic flavoring 3-4x stronger than vanillin. Used in chocolate and confect...
🔶 Diacetyl — A buttery flavoring used in microwave popcorn. Linked to 'popcorn lung' disease ...
✅ E621 (MSG) — EU code for monosodium glutamate. Natural flavor enhancer. FDA GRAS despite cont...
✅ E620 (Glutamic Acid) — The naturally occurring amino acid form of MSG. Found in tomatoes and cheese....
✅ E627 (Disodium Guanylate) — EU code for disodium guanylate. Flavor enhancer. Avoid with gout....
✅ E631 (Disodium Inosinate) — EU code for disodium inosinate. Synergistic flavor enhancer with MSG....
✅ E635 (Disodium Ribonucleotides) — A combination of E627 and E631. Powerful flavor enhancer used in snacks and nood...

Food Dyes (53)

🔶 Red 40 (Allura Red) — A synthetic red food dye used in snacks, cereals, and beverages. Linked to hyper...
🔶 Titanium Dioxide — A whitening agent used in candy and supplements. Banned as a food additive in th...
✅ Annatto — A natural food coloring from achiote seeds. Used in cheese, butter, and snacks. ...
⚠️ Caramel Color — A widely used food coloring in sodas and sauces. Some types contain 4-MEI, a pos...
🔶 Yellow 5 (Tartrazine) — Synthetic yellow dye used in snacks, cereals, and drinks. Banned in Norway and A...
🔶 Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow) — Synthetic orange-yellow dye in cheese, candy, and cereals. Linked to allergic re...
⚠️ Blue 1 (Brilliant Blue) — Synthetic blue dye used in candy, ice cream, and beverages. May cross blood-brai...
⚠️ Blue 2 (Indigo Carmine) — Synthetic blue dye used in candy and baked goods. May cause nausea and allergic ...
🔴 Red 3 (Erythrosine) — Synthetic red dye used in candy and maraschino cherries. Banned in cosmetics due...
🔶 Green 3 (Fast Green) — Synthetic green dye used in canned peas, mint jelly, and candy. Limited studies ...
✅ Brilliant Blue FCF (E133) — Blue colorant used in confectionery and dairy. Generally considered safe in appr...
🔴 Amaranth (E123) — A dark red food dye banned in the US since 1976 due to cancer concerns. Still us...
✅ Beta-Carotene — A natural orange pigment and vitamin A precursor found in carrots. Used as both ...
✅ Lycopene — A natural red pigment from tomatoes. Used as a food colorant. Powerful antioxida...
✅ Turmeric (Curcumin) — A natural yellow spice used as a food colorant. Contains curcumin with anti-infl...
✅ Paprika Extract (Oleoresin) — A natural red-orange colorant from paprika peppers. Used in snacks, cheese, and ...
✅ Beet Juice (Betanin) — A natural red colorant from beets. Used as a healthy alternative to synthetic re...
✅ Spirulina Extract — A natural blue-green colorant from algae. Rich in protein and antioxidants. Very...
⚠️ Carmine (Cochineal Extract) — A natural red dye made from crushed cochineal insects. Can cause allergic reacti...
🔶 E171 (Titanium Dioxide) — EU code for titanium dioxide. Banned in EU food since 2022 due to genotoxicity c...
🔶 E102 (Tartrazine/Yellow 5) — EU code for Yellow 5. Requires warning label in EU: 'may have adverse effect on ...
🔶 E110 (Sunset Yellow/Yellow 6) — EU code for Yellow 6. Requires warning label in EU for behavioral effects on chi...
🔶 E129 (Allura Red/Red 40) — EU code for Red 40. Requires warning label in EU. Linked to hyperactivity in chi...
⚠️ E133 (Brilliant Blue/Blue 1) — EU code for Blue 1. Generally permitted in EU with ADI of 6 mg/kg body weight....
🔶 E150d (Sulfite Ammonia Caramel) — The type of caramel color used in cola drinks. Contains 4-MEI, a probable carcin...
✅ E160a (Beta-Carotene) — EU code for beta-carotene. Natural orange colorant from carrots. Very safe....
✅ E100 (Curcumin) — EU code for turmeric extract. Natural yellow-orange colorant with anti-inflammat...
✅ E101 (Riboflavin) — EU code for vitamin B2. Used as a yellow food coloring and nutrient supplement....
🔶 E104 (Quinoline Yellow) — A synthetic yellow dye banned in the US, Japan, and Norway. Requires warning lab...
⚠️ E120 (Carmine/Cochineal) — EU code for carmine. Natural red dye from insects. Allergen risk. Not vegan....
🔶 E122 (Carmoisine/Azorubine) — A synthetic red dye used in EU. Banned in US, Japan, and Norway. Linked to hyper...
🔶 E124 (Ponceau 4R) — A synthetic red dye used in EU but banned in US. Requires hyperactivity warning ...
🔴 E127 (Erythrosine/Red 3) — EU code for Red 3. Banned in cosmetics due to thyroid tumors. Still allowed in f...
⚠️ E131 (Patent Blue V) — A synthetic blue dye used in EU for candy and drinks. Not approved in US or Aust...
⚠️ E132 (Indigo Carmine/Blue 2) — EU code for Blue 2. Synthetic blue dye. May cause nausea at high doses....
✅ E140 (Chlorophyll) — Natural green pigment from plants. Very safe food coloring extracted from leaves...
✅ E141 (Copper Chlorophyllin) — A semi-synthetic green colorant derived from chlorophyll. Used in candy and drin...
🔶 E142 (Green S) — A synthetic green dye used in EU. Banned in US, Canada, and Japan. Allergen risk...
✅ E150a (Plain Caramel) — Simple caramel color made by heating sugar. The safest type of caramel coloring....
⚠️ E150b (Caustic Sulfite Caramel) — Caramel color made with sulfite compounds. Used in some spirits and vinegar....
⚠️ E150c (Ammonia Caramel) — Caramel color made with ammonia compounds. Used in beer, soy sauce, and confecti...
🔶 E151 (Brilliant Black BN) — A synthetic black dye used in EU. Banned in US, Canada, and Japan. Hyperactivity...
⚠️ E153 (Carbon Black/Vegetable Carbon) — A black colorant made from charcoal. Used in confectionery. Recently questioned ...
🔶 E155 (Brown HT) — A synthetic brown dye used in EU chocolates. Banned in US, Austria, and Japan....
✅ E160b (Annatto) — EU code for annatto. Natural orange-red colorant from achiote seeds. Rare allerg...
✅ E160c (Paprika Extract) — EU code for paprika oleoresin. Natural red-orange colorant. Very safe....
✅ E161b (Lutein) — A natural yellow carotenoid found in egg yolks and marigolds. Supports eye healt...
✅ E162 (Beetroot Red/Betanin) — EU code for beet juice colorant. Natural, safe, and increasingly popular as a dy...
✅ E163 (Anthocyanins) — Natural purple-red pigments from grapes, berries, and red cabbage. Antioxidant p...
✅ E172 (Iron Oxides) — Natural mineral colorants in yellow, red, and black. Used in confectionery coati...
✅ Annatto Extract (E160b) — Natural orange-red colorant from achiote tree seeds. Used in cheese, butter, and...
✅ Chlorophyll — The green pigment in plants. Used as a natural food colorant. Supplements popula...
⚠️ Activated Charcoal — Trendy food colorant making foods black. Can interfere with medication absorptio...

Food Safety Terms (87)

🔴 Trans Fats — Artificial trans fats from partial hydrogenation increase LDL cholesterol and he...
⚠️ Saturated Fat — Fats solid at room temperature found in meat, dairy, and tropical oils. Excessiv...
⚠️ Omega-6 Fatty Acids — Essential fats found in seed oils. Modern diets have excessive omega-6 to omega-...
✅ Omega-3 Fatty Acids — Anti-inflammatory essential fats found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts. Most Amer...
⚠️ Glycemic Index (GI) — A measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar. High GI foods include white ...
⚠️ NOVA Food Classification — A system classifying foods by processing level: unprocessed, processed ingredien...
🔶 Ultra-Processed Food (UPF) — NOVA Group 4 industrial formulations with 5+ ingredients. Linked to obesity, can...
⚠️ GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) — FDA classification for food additives. Controversial because manufacturers can s...
✅ ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) — The amount of a food additive that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without...
⚠️ Food Contact Substance — Materials that touch food during manufacturing, packaging, or storage. Can leach...
🔶 Bioaccumulation — The buildup of toxins in the body over time from repeated low-level exposure in ...
🔴 Endocrine Disruptor — Chemicals that interfere with hormone systems. Found in food packaging (BPA, pht...
🔴 Carcinogen — Any substance capable of causing cancer. IARC classifies carcinogens in Groups 1...
⚠️ IARC Cancer Classification — International Agency for Research on Cancer's system: Group 1 (definite), 2A (pr...
⚠️ Proposition 65 Warning — California law requiring warning labels for products containing chemicals known ...
🔶 FDA Food Recall — A voluntary or mandatory removal of food products from the market. Class I (dang...
🔶 Cross-Contamination — Transfer of allergens or pathogens between foods during preparation. Major risk ...
✅ Allergen Labeling (FALCPA) — US law requiring labels to declare 9 major allergens: milk, eggs, fish, shellfis...
⚠️ Clean Label — Marketing term for products with simple, recognizable ingredients. No legal defi...
✅ Organic (USDA) — USDA-certified products grown without synthetic pesticides, GMOs, or irradiation...
✅ Non-GMO — Products not made with genetically modified organisms. Non-GMO Project verified ...
✅ GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) — Organisms with DNA altered through genetic engineering. FDA considers approved G...
✅ Bioengineered (BE) Disclosure — USDA's mandatory label for genetically modified food, replacing the term 'GMO' s...
✅ Food Grade — Materials certified safe for contact with food. Different from pharmaceutical or...
✅ Codex Alimentarius — International food safety standards established by WHO and FAO. Used by 189 coun...
✅ HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) — A systematic food safety management system for identifying and controlling biolo...
✅ Pasteurization — Heat treatment to kill pathogens in milk, juice, and other beverages. Essential ...
✅ Food Irradiation — Using ionizing radiation to kill bacteria and extend shelf life. FDA-approved fo...
🔴 Nitrosamines — Cancer-causing compounds formed when nitrites react with amino acids during cook...
🔶 Heterocyclic Amines (HCAs) — Carcinogenic compounds formed when meat is cooked at high temperatures (grilling...
🔶 Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) — Carcinogenic compounds formed during smoking, grilling, and incomplete combustio...
⚠️ Maillard Reaction — Chemical reaction between amino acids and sugars during cooking that creates fla...
🔶 Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) — Compounds formed by heating food. Promote oxidative stress and inflammation. Hig...
🔴 Aflatoxins — Potent carcinogens produced by mold on peanuts, corn, and grains. One of the mos...
🔴 Mycotoxins — Toxic compounds produced by mold growing on grains, nuts, and dried fruit. Can c...
🔶 Ochratoxin A — A mycotoxin found in coffee, wine, dried fruit, and cereals. Kidney damage and p...
🔶 Deoxynivalenol (Vomitoxin) — A mycotoxin in wheat and corn that causes nausea and vomiting. Most common mycot...
🔶 Histamine (in food) — Formed by bacteria in improperly stored fish. Causes scombroid poisoning with al...
⚠️ Oxalates — Anti-nutrients in spinach, rhubarb, and almonds that bind calcium and can cause ...
⚠️ Phytates (Phytic Acid) — Anti-nutrients in grains, legumes, and seeds that reduce mineral absorption. Red...
⚠️ Lectins — Plant proteins in beans, grains, and nightshades that can cause digestive issues...
✅ Saponins — Bitter compounds in quinoa, legumes, and oats. Natural detergents. May have heal...
⚠️ Goitrogens — Compounds in cruciferous vegetables and soy that can interfere with thyroid func...
🔶 Solanine — A toxic alkaloid in green potatoes and tomato leaves. Can cause nausea and neuro...
🔴 Cyanogenic Glycosides — Compounds in bitter almonds, cassava, and apple seeds that release cyanide when ...
⚠️ FODMAPs — Fermentable carbohydrates that trigger IBS symptoms. Found in onions, garlic, wh...
✅ Nightshades — Plant family including tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, and eggplant. Some people re...
⚠️ Phytoestrogens — Plant compounds that mimic estrogen. Found in soy, flaxseed, and legumes. Effect...
✅ Polyphenols — Plant antioxidants found in berries, tea, coffee, and dark chocolate. Anti-infla...
✅ Flavonoids — A type of polyphenol found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine. Powerful antiox...
✅ Resveratrol — An antioxidant in red wine and grapes. Studied for anti-aging and heart health b...
✅ Probiotics — Live beneficial bacteria in yogurt, kefir, and supplements. Support gut health a...
✅ Prebiotics — Non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria. Found in garlic, onions...
✅ Synbiotics — Products combining probiotics and prebiotics together. Designed for enhanced gut...
✅ Postbiotics — Beneficial compounds produced by probiotic bacteria during fermentation. Include...
✅ Fermented Foods — Foods transformed by bacterial fermentation: yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kombuch...
✅ Whole Grains — Grains with intact bran, germ, and endosperm. Higher fiber and nutrients than re...
⚠️ Refined Grains — Grains stripped of bran and germ during milling. Lower fiber and nutrients. Enri...
⚠️ Enriched Flour — White flour with B vitamins and iron added back after refining. Still lacks fibe...
✅ Food Fortification — Adding nutrients to foods that don't naturally contain them. Examples: iodine in...
⚠️ Food Additive — Any substance added to food during production. Includes preservatives, colorings...
⚠️ Processing Aid — Substances used during food manufacturing that don't remain in final product. No...
🔴 Benzene (in food) — A carcinogen that can form in beverages containing sodium benzoate and ascorbic ...
🔶 Furans — Toxic compounds formed during heat processing of canned and jarred foods. Possib...
🔴 Dioxins — Highly toxic environmental pollutants that accumulate in animal fat. Found in me...
🔴 Melamine — Industrial chemical fraudulently added to milk and pet food in 2008 Chinese scan...
🔶 Ractopamine — A growth promoter used in US livestock. Banned in 160+ countries including EU an...
🔶 rBGH/rBST (Growth Hormone) — Recombinant bovine growth hormone used to increase milk production. Banned in EU...
🔶 Antibiotics in Food — Antimicrobials used in livestock farming contributing to antibiotic resistance. ...
⚠️ MSG Sensitivity — Reported adverse reactions to MSG including headache and flushing. Double-blind ...
🔶 Red Meat (Health Risks) — Beef, pork, and lamb. IARC Group 2A probable carcinogen. Linked to colorectal ca...
🔴 Processed Meat — Meat preserved by curing, smoking, or salting. IARC Group 1 carcinogen. Includes...
🔶 Food Fraud/Adulteration — Intentional deception in food for profit. Common targets: olive oil, honey, spic...
🔴 Listeria monocytogenes — Deadly bacteria in deli meats, soft cheeses, and smoked fish. Grows in refrigera...
🔴 Salmonella — Leading cause of bacterial foodborne illness. Found in poultry, eggs, and produc...
🔴 E. coli O157:H7 — Dangerous bacteria in undercooked ground beef, raw milk, and contaminated produc...
🔴 Botulism (Clostridium botulinum) — Rare but deadly toxin from improperly canned foods. Bulging cans are a warning s...
🔴 Campylobacter — Most common bacterial cause of diarrhea worldwide. Found in raw poultry and unpa...
🔶 Norovirus — Leading cause of foodborne illness outbreaks. Spread through contaminated food h...
🔶 Staphylococcus aureus — Bacteria producing toxins in improperly stored food. Causes rapid-onset food poi...
🔶 Temperature Danger Zone — 40°F to 140°F (4°C to 60°C) — the range where bacteria multiply rapidly. Food sh...
⚠️ Sous Vide Safety — Cooking in sealed bags at precise low temperatures. Requires careful time-temper...
🔶 Raw (Unpasteurized) Milk — Milk not heat-treated. CDC warns of bacteria risk. Banned in retail sale in many...
🔶 Oil Rancidity — Oxidative degradation of fats producing harmful aldehydes. Accelerated by heat, ...
⚠️ Smoke Point — Temperature at which oil begins to break down and release toxic compounds. Varie...
✅ Cold-Pressed Oil — Oil extracted mechanically without heat. Retains more nutrients and flavor than ...
✅ Expeller-Pressed Oil — Oil extracted by mechanical pressing without chemical solvents. May generate hea...

Heavy Metals (21)

🔴 Arsenic (in food) — A toxic heavy metal found in rice, apple juice, and groundwater. Inorganic arsen...
🔴 Lead (in food) — A toxic heavy metal found in spices, baby food, and some fruit juices. No safe l...
🔴 Cadmium (in food) — A heavy metal found in chocolate, spinach, and grains. Accumulates in kidneys. C...
🔴 Mercury (in food) — A toxic heavy metal found in large fish (tuna, swordfish, shark). Methylmercury ...
🔴 Chromium VI (Hexavalent) — A toxic form of chromium found in some contaminated water and foods. Carcinogeni...
🔶 Aluminum (in food) — Found in baking powder, antacids, and processed cheese. May accumulate in brain ...
🔴 PFAS (Forever Chemicals) — Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in food packaging, microwave popcorn bags, a...
🔴 Bisphenol A (BPA) — An endocrine disruptor found in can linings and plastic containers. Leaches into...
🔴 Phthalates — Plasticizers that leach into food from packaging and processing equipment. Endoc...
🔶 Microplastics (in food) — Tiny plastic particles found in seafood, salt, water, and processed foods. Long-...
🔶 Acrylamide — A chemical formed when starchy foods are cooked at high temperatures (fries, chi...
🔶 3-MCPD — A processing contaminant in refined vegetable oils and soy sauce. Classified as ...
🔴 Glycidyl Esters — Contaminants formed during oil refining, especially palm oil. Genotoxic and carc...
🔶 Perchlorate — A contaminant from fertilizers found in leafy greens and dairy. Disrupts thyroid...
🔶 Glyphosate (Roundup) — The most widely used herbicide, found as residue in oats, wheat, and beans. IARC...
🔴 Chlorpyrifos — An organophosphate pesticide recently banned for food use in the US. Linked to n...
🔶 Atrazine — A widely used herbicide found on corn. Endocrine disruptor. Banned in EU since 2...
🔶 2,4-D Herbicide — A common herbicide used on lawns and crops. Component of Agent Orange. Possible ...
🔶 Neonicotinoids — Insecticides linked to pollinator decline. Residues found on fruits and vegetabl...
🔴 DDT — A banned insecticide (1972) that persists in the environment. Still found in som...
🔴 PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls) — Banned industrial chemicals that persist in the environment. Accumulate in fish ...

Minerals (22)

✅ Ferrous Sulfate — An iron supplement added to enriched flour and cereals. Essential nutrient but c...
✅ Zinc Oxide — A mineral supplement added to cereals and fortified foods. Essential trace eleme...
✅ Calcium Carbonate — A mineral supplement and acidity regulator. Found in antacids, fortified foods, ...
✅ E170 (Calcium Carbonate) — EU code for chalk/calcium. Used as white colorant, anti-caking agent, and minera...
✅ E508 (Potassium Chloride) — A salt substitute for reduced-sodium products. Essential electrolyte. Safe in fo...
✅ E509 (Calcium Chloride) — A firming agent in canned vegetables and cheese. Used in molecular gastronomy....
✅ E511 (Magnesium Chloride) — A coagulant for tofu (nigari). Natural mineral salt. Very safe....
✅ E516 (Calcium Sulfate) — Plaster of Paris derivative used as tofu coagulant and flour treatment. Very saf...
✅ E529 (Calcium Oxide/Quicklime) — Used in corn processing (nixtamalization) for tortillas. Traditional and safe....
✅ Iron — Essential mineral for oxygen transport in blood. Heme iron (meat) is better abso...
✅ Calcium — Essential mineral for bones, teeth, and muscle function. Found in dairy, leafy g...
✅ Magnesium — Essential mineral for over 300 enzymatic reactions. Found in nuts, seeds, and da...
✅ Potassium — Essential electrolyte for heart and muscle function. Found in bananas, potatoes,...
✅ Selenium — Trace mineral with antioxidant properties. Found in Brazil nuts, seafood, and or...
✅ Iodine — Essential for thyroid hormone production. Found in iodized salt, seafood, and da...
✅ Manganese — Trace mineral for bone health and metabolism. Found in nuts, grains, and tea. To...
✅ Chromium III (Trivalent) — Essential trace mineral for insulin function. Found in broccoli, grape juice, an...
✅ Copper — Essential trace mineral for iron metabolism and connective tissue. Found in shel...
✅ Molybdenum — Essential trace mineral for enzyme function. Found in legumes, grains, and nuts....
⚠️ Phosphorus — Essential mineral for bones and energy production. Excessive phosphorus from add...
⚠️ Sodium — Essential electrolyte. Americans consume 50% more than recommended. Excess linke...
⚠️ Fluoride — Added to water and toothpaste for dental health. Excessive intake causes fluoros...

Preservatives (101)

🔶 TBHQ — A synthetic preservative used in processed foods and fast food. Linked to immune...
🔶 BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) — A preservative used in cereals, chips, and cosmetics. Classified as possibly car...
⚠️ BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) — A synthetic antioxidant preservative found in cereals and packaging. Controversi...
🔴 Sodium Nitrite — A preservative and color fixative used in cured meats. Forms nitrosamines linked...
🔴 Potassium Bromate — A flour improver banned in most countries but still allowed in the US. Classifie...
✅ Citric Acid — A natural acid found in citrus fruits, widely used as a preservative and flavori...
⚠️ Sodium Benzoate — A preservative used in soft drinks and acidic foods. Can form benzene when combi...
🔴 Azodicarbonamide — A flour bleaching and rising agent used in bread. Also used in yoga mats and sho...
⚠️ Dimethylpolysiloxane — An anti-foaming agent found in McDonald's Chicken McNuggets and fast food frying...
⚠️ Calcium Propionate — A preservative used in bread and baked goods to prevent mold. Linked to irritabi...
⚠️ Sodium Phosphate — Used in processed cheese, meat, and baked goods as an emulsifier and leavening a...
🔴 Sodium Nitrate — A preservative in cured meats and bacon. Converts to nitrosamines during cooking...
✅ Potassium Sorbate — A widely used preservative in wine, cheese, and baked goods. Generally recognize...
✅ Sorbic Acid — A natural preservative found in berries. Used in cheese, wine, and baked goods. ...
⚠️ Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) — A preservative in dried fruits and wine. Can trigger asthma attacks in sensitive...
⚠️ Sodium Sulfite — A preservative and bleaching agent in wine and dried fruits. Causes allergic rea...
⚠️ Calcium Disodium EDTA — A preservative that chelates metals in canned foods, dressings, and sauces. May ...
🔶 Phosphoric Acid — Used in cola drinks for tangy flavor. Linked to decreased bone density and kidne...
✅ Sodium Erythorbate — An antioxidant preservative in cured meats. Isomer of vitamin C. Prevents nitros...
✅ Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) — A natural antioxidant used as a preservative in juices, fruits, and cured meats....
✅ Tocopherols (Vitamin E) — Natural antioxidants used to preserve oils and fats in food. Mixed tocopherols a...
✅ Rosemary Extract — A natural preservative used in oils, meats, and snacks. Contains antioxidants. V...
🔶 Sodium Aluminum Phosphate — A leavening agent in baked goods and pancake mixes. Contains aluminum which may ...
🔶 Aluminum Sulfate — Used in baking powder and pickled foods. Aluminum exposure linked to neurologica...
✅ Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda) — A leavening agent and antacid. One of the safest food additives. Essential for b...
✅ Lactic Acid — A natural acid produced by fermentation. Used as a preservative and flavoring in...
✅ Malic Acid — A natural acid found in apples. Used as a flavor enhancer and preservative in so...
✅ Tartaric Acid — A natural acid from grapes. Used in baking powder (cream of tartar) and wine. Ve...
✅ Fumaric Acid — An organic acid used in beverages, gelatin desserts, and pie fillings. Generally...
⚠️ Benzoic Acid — A preservative that naturally occurs in cranberries. Used in sodas and pickled f...
⚠️ Propionic Acid — A preservative used in bread and baked goods. Naturally produced in the gut. Lin...
✅ Acetic Acid (Vinegar) — The main component of vinegar. Used as a preservative and flavor agent. Very saf...
🔶 Butylparaben — A preservative used in food and cosmetics. Endocrine disruptor that mimics estro...
🔶 Propylparaben — A preservative in tortillas and baked goods. Endocrine-disrupting properties. FD...
⚠️ Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP) — Used in seafood to retain moisture and in processed meats. Can increase sodium i...
✅ Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate — A leavening agent in baked goods and a preservative for potatoes. Generally safe...
✅ Monocalcium Phosphate — A leavening agent in baking powder and self-rising flour. Generally recognized a...
⚠️ Sodium Hexametaphosphate — A sequestrant used to preserve texture in canned seafood and processed cheese. H...
⚠️ Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) — Used in cereals (like Cheerios) as a pH regulator. Also used as an industrial cl...
✅ E202 (Potassium Sorbate) — EU code for potassium sorbate. One of the safest preservatives available....
⚠️ E211 (Sodium Benzoate) — EU code for sodium benzoate. Can form benzene when combined with vitamin C in ac...
⚠️ E220 (Sulfur Dioxide) — EU code for sulfur dioxide. Common preservative in wine and dried fruit. Asthma ...
🔴 E250 (Sodium Nitrite) — EU code for sodium nitrite. Used in cured meats. Nitrosamine formation risk duri...
✅ E300 (Ascorbic Acid/Vitamin C) — EU code for vitamin C. Natural antioxidant preservative. Very safe and beneficia...
✅ E330 (Citric Acid) — EU code for citric acid. Natural preservative from citrus. Very safe....
⚠️ E450 (Diphosphates) — EU code for pyrophosphates. Leavening and emulsifying agents. High phosphorus in...
✅ E500 (Sodium Bicarbonate) — EU code for baking soda. One of the safest food additives. Essential for leaveni...
⚠️ E900 (Dimethylpolysiloxane) — EU code for silicone-based anti-foaming agent. Found in fast food frying oil....
✅ E200 (Sorbic Acid) — EU code for sorbic acid. Natural preservative. One of the safest food preservati...
⚠️ E210 (Benzoic Acid) — EU code for benzoic acid. Natural preservative from cranberries. Benzene formati...
⚠️ E223 (Sodium Metabisulfite) — A sulfite preservative in wine, dried fruit, and shrimp. Strong asthma trigger....
⚠️ E224 (Potassium Metabisulfite) — A sulfite preservative used in wine and beer. Can trigger severe reactions in as...
✅ E234 (Nisin) — A natural antimicrobial peptide produced by bacteria. Used in cheese and canned ...
✅ E235 (Natamycin) — A natural antifungal from bacteria. Used on cheese rinds and sausage casings. Ve...
🔶 E252 (Potassium Nitrate) — EU code for saltpeter. Preservative in cured meats. Converts to nitrite in body....
✅ E260 (Acetic Acid) — EU code for vinegar acid. Traditional preservative. Very safe....
✅ E270 (Lactic Acid) — EU code for lactic acid. Natural fermentation acid. Very safe....
⚠️ E280 (Propionic Acid) — EU code for propionic acid. Bread preservative. Behavioral concerns in high dose...
✅ E281 (Sodium Propionate) — Sodium salt of propionic acid. Common bread mold inhibitor. Generally safe....
⚠️ E282 (Calcium Propionate) — EU code for calcium propionate. Bread preservative linked to irritability in chi...
✅ E296 (Malic Acid) — EU code for malic acid. Natural apple acid. Safe flavor enhancer....
✅ E297 (Fumaric Acid) — EU code for fumaric acid. Organic acid in beverages and desserts. Very safe....
✅ E301 (Sodium Ascorbate) — Sodium salt of vitamin C. Antioxidant preservative. Very safe and beneficial....
✅ E302 (Calcium Ascorbate) — Calcium salt of vitamin C. Gentle antioxidant preservative. Very safe....
✅ E304 (Ascorbyl Palmitate) — Fat-soluble form of vitamin C. Antioxidant in oils and fats. Very safe....
✅ E306 (Tocopherol-Rich Extract) — EU code for natural vitamin E extract. Antioxidant preservative. Very safe....
✅ E307 (Alpha-Tocopherol) — EU code for synthetic vitamin E. Antioxidant in oils. Generally safe....
⚠️ E310 (Propyl Gallate) — A synthetic antioxidant in fats and oils. May cause allergic reactions. Banned i...
✅ E315 (Erythorbic Acid) — An isomer of vitamin C used as antioxidant in cured meats. Prevents nitrosamine ...
✅ E316 (Sodium Erythorbate) — EU code for sodium erythorbate. Antioxidant in cured meats. Very safe....
🔶 E319 (TBHQ) — EU code for TBHQ. Synthetic antioxidant in fast food and snacks. Immune effects ...
🔶 E320 (BHA) — EU code for BHA. Synthetic preservative. IARC possibly carcinogenic....
⚠️ E321 (BHT) — EU code for BHT. Synthetic antioxidant. Controversial safety profile....
✅ E325 (Sodium Lactate) — Sodium salt of lactic acid. Humectant and preservative in meat products. Very sa...
✅ E331 (Sodium Citrate) — Sodium salt of citric acid. Buffer, emulsifier, and flavor agent. Very safe....
✅ E332 (Potassium Citrate) — Potassium salt of citric acid. Buffer and sequestrant. Very safe....
✅ E333 (Calcium Citrate) — Calcium salt of citric acid. Firming agent and calcium source. Very safe....
✅ E334 (Tartaric Acid) — EU code for tartaric acid. Natural grape acid used in baking. Very safe....
✅ E335 (Sodium Tartrate) — Sodium salt of tartaric acid. Emulsifier in jam and jelly. Very safe....
✅ E336 (Cream of Tartar) — Potassium bitartrate from winemaking. Leavening agent. Very safe....
🔶 E338 (Phosphoric Acid) — EU code for phosphoric acid. Acidulant in cola. Bone density concerns....
⚠️ E339 (Sodium Phosphate) — EU code for sodium phosphates. Emulsifier in processed cheese. Kidney concerns....
⚠️ E340 (Potassium Phosphate) — Buffer and emulsifier in dairy and meat products. Phosphorus overload concerns....
✅ E341 (Calcium Phosphate) — Anticaking agent and calcium supplement. Used in baking powder. Generally safe....
✅ E343 (Magnesium Phosphate) — Anticaking agent and mineral supplement. Used in powdered products. Generally sa...
✅ E350 (Sodium Malate) — Sodium salt of malic acid. Acidity regulator and humectant. Very safe....
⚠️ E451 (Triphosphates) — Emulsifying salts in processed meat and cheese. Phosphorus overload risk....
⚠️ E452 (Polyphosphates) — Water-binding agents in seafood and meat. Can mask quality. High phosphorus....
✅ E501 (Potassium Carbonate) — An alkalizing agent used in cocoa processing (Dutch process). Very safe....
✅ E503 (Ammonium Carbonate) — A leavening agent used in Scandinavian flatbreads and cookies. Decomposes during...
✅ E524 (Sodium Hydroxide/Lye) — Strong alkali used in pretzel making and olive curing. Neutralized in final prod...
✅ E575 (Glucono Delta-Lactone) — A slow-acting acidifier used in tofu, meat, and leavening. Very safe....
⚠️ E920 (L-Cysteine) — An amino acid dough conditioner often derived from human hair or duck feathers. ...
✅ E927b (Carbamide/Urea) — Used in chewing gum and yeast-leavened products. Synthetic but safe in small amo...
✅ E938 (Argon) — An inert gas used in modified atmosphere packaging to extend shelf life. Complet...
✅ E941 (Nitrogen) — An inert gas used in packaging and to pressurize beverages. Completely safe....
✅ E942 (Nitrous Oxide) — Propellant for whipped cream cans. Safe in food use. Recreational abuse concerns...
✅ E948 (Oxygen) — Used in modified atmosphere packaging for red meat to maintain color. Safe....
⚠️ Calcium Sulfite (E226) — A sulfite preservative used in some fruit products. Asthma trigger in sensitive ...
⚠️ Potassium Bisulfite (E228) — A sulfite preservative used in wine and beer. Can trigger severe reactions in as...
✅ Stannous Chloride (E512) — A tin-based antioxidant used in canned asparagus and beverages. Generally safe i...

Proteins (3)

✅ Whey Protein — A dairy protein used in supplements, protein bars, and baked goods. Allergen for...
⚠️ Soy Protein Isolate — Highly processed soy protein used in meat alternatives and protein bars. Contain...
✅ Collagen — Structural protein from animal connective tissue. Popular supplement for skin an...

Seed Oils (24)

⚠️ Palm Oil — A widely used vegetable oil with environmental and health concerns. High in satu...
⚠️ Canola Oil — A common cooking oil high in omega-6 fatty acids. Controversial in health-consci...
⚠️ Soybean Oil — The most widely consumed oil in the US. High omega-6 content may promote inflamm...
⚠️ Sunflower Oil — A common cooking oil. High-oleic varieties are healthier than conventional high-...
🔶 Cottonseed Oil — A seed oil from cotton plants (not a food crop). May contain pesticide residues....
⚠️ Corn Oil — A refined seed oil high in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats. Linked to inflammation ...
⚠️ Safflower Oil — A seed oil high in omega-6 linoleic acid. High-oleic varieties are healthier. Us...
✅ Rice Bran Oil — An oil extracted from rice husks. Contains gamma-oryzanol. Better fatty acid pro...
⚠️ Grapeseed Oil — A byproduct of winemaking. Very high in omega-6 (70%). Marketed as healthy but h...
🔴 Partially Hydrogenated Oil — The primary dietary source of artificial trans fats. Banned by FDA in 2018 but s...
⚠️ Interesterified Fat — A replacement for trans fats created by chemically rearranging fatty acids. Limi...
✅ Oleic Acid — A monounsaturated fatty acid found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts. Heart-healt...
✅ MCT Oil (Medium-Chain Triglycerides) — Fats derived from coconut oil. Popular in keto diets. Quickly metabolized for en...
✅ Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) — A fatty acid found in meat and dairy. Marketed for weight loss. Mixed evidence o...
⚠️ Coconut Oil — Tropical oil high in saturated fat (82%). Contains medium-chain triglycerides. H...
✅ Avocado Oil — A fruit oil high in oleic acid and vitamin E. High smoke point. Studies found 82...
✅ Olive Oil — A heart-healthy fruit oil rich in monounsaturated fat and polyphenols. Extra vir...
✅ Flaxseed Oil — Plant-based omega-3 (ALA) source. Must be refrigerated. Should not be heated. An...
✅ Sesame Oil — A flavorful oil used in Asian cooking. Contains antioxidant lignans. Allergen ri...
✅ Peanut Oil — A cooking oil with a high smoke point. Refined peanut oil typically safe for pea...
⚠️ Tallow (Beef Fat) — Rendered beef fat used traditionally for cooking and frying. High in saturated f...
⚠️ Lard (Pork Fat) — Rendered pork fat. Traditional cooking fat with less saturated fat than butter. ...
✅ Ghee (Clarified Butter) — Butter with milk solids removed. Lactose and casein-free. Very high smoke point....
⚠️ Seed Oils (Industrial) — Refined vegetable oils (soybean, corn, canola, sunflower) extracted with heat an...

Solvents (4)

✅ Propylene Glycol — A solvent and moisture-retaining agent used in ice cream and bakery products. Ge...
✅ E1510 (Ethanol) — EU code for food-grade alcohol. Solvent, preservative, and flavoring carrier....
✅ E1520 (Propylene Glycol) — EU code for propylene glycol. Solvent and moisture agent. FDA GRAS....
🔶 Hexane — A chemical solvent used to extract vegetable oils from seeds. Residues may remai...

Thickeners (38)

⚠️ Carrageenan — A thickener extracted from seaweed used in dairy alternatives and processed food...
✅ Xanthan Gum — A common thickener and stabilizer produced by bacterial fermentation. Generally ...
✅ Cellulose — Plant fiber used as an anti-caking agent and filler. Found in shredded cheese an...
✅ Guar Gum — A natural thickener from guar beans. Used in ice cream, sauces, and gluten-free ...
✅ Locust Bean Gum (Carob Gum) — A natural thickener from carob tree seeds. Used in ice cream, cream cheese, and ...
✅ Gellan Gum — A fermentation-derived gelling agent used in plant milks and desserts. Generally...
✅ Agar (Agar-Agar) — A natural gelling agent from seaweed. Used in desserts and as a vegan gelatin su...
✅ Pectin — A natural fiber found in fruits, used as a gelling agent in jams and jellies. Be...
✅ Methylcellulose — A chemically modified cellulose used as a thickener in gluten-free baking. Also ...
⚠️ Modified Food Starch — Chemically or physically altered starch used as a thickener. May be derived from...
⚠️ Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) — A thickener in ice cream, salad dressings, and gluten-free products. May promote...
✅ Tragacanth Gum — A natural gum from Astragalus plants. Used in salad dressings and sauces. Genera...
✅ Arabic Gum (Acacia Gum) — A natural gum from acacia trees. Used in candy, soft drinks, and supplements. Ve...
✅ Konjac (Glucomannan) — A dietary fiber from konjac root. Used as a thickener in noodles and supplements...
✅ Sodium Alginate — A thickener and stabilizer from brown seaweed. Used in ice cream and salad dress...
⚠️ E407 (Carrageenan) — EU code for carrageenan. Seaweed-derived thickener. Digestive inflammation conce...
✅ E412 (Guar Gum) — EU code for guar gum. Natural thickener from guar beans. Very safe....
✅ E415 (Xanthan Gum) — EU code for xanthan gum. Bacterial fermentation thickener. Very safe....
✅ E440 (Pectin) — EU code for pectin. Natural fruit fiber gelling agent. Very safe....
✅ E460 (Cellulose) — EU code for cellulose. Natural plant fiber. Used as anti-caking agent. Very safe...
✅ E400 (Alginic Acid) — Natural thickener from brown seaweed. Used in ice cream and dressings. Very safe...
✅ E401 (Sodium Alginate) — EU code for sodium alginate. Seaweed thickener and stabilizer. Very safe....
✅ E402 (Potassium Alginate) — Potassium salt of alginic acid. Thickener in dairy products. Very safe....
✅ E405 (Propylene Glycol Alginate) — Modified alginate used in salad dressings and beer foam. Generally safe....
✅ E406 (Agar) — EU code for agar. Natural seaweed gelling agent. Vegan gelatin substitute. Very ...
✅ E410 (Locust Bean Gum) — EU code for carob gum. Natural thickener from carob seeds. Very safe....
✅ E413 (Tragacanth Gum) — EU code for tragacanth. Natural plant gum. Rare allergies reported....
✅ E414 (Acacia Gum) — EU code for gum arabic. Natural tree gum with prebiotic properties. Very safe....
✅ E416 (Karaya Gum) — A natural gum from Sterculia trees. Used in ice cream and dressings. Generally s...
✅ E417 (Tara Gum) — A natural galactomannan from tara seeds. Thickener in dairy and bakery products....
✅ E418 (Gellan Gum) — EU code for gellan gum. Fermentation-derived gelling agent. Very safe....
⚠️ E425 (Konjac Glucomannan) — EU code for konjac. Dietary fiber thickener. Choking hazard in jelly candies ban...
✅ E461 (Methylcellulose) — EU code for methylcellulose. Modified cellulose thickener. Also a laxative....
✅ E464 (HPMC) — Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. Vegan capsule material and food thickener. Very s...
⚠️ E466 (CMC/Carboxymethylcellulose) — EU code for CMC. Common thickener. Gut inflammation concerns in studies....
✅ E1442 (Hydroxypropyl Distarch Phosphate) — A modified starch thickener. Common in sauces and gravies. Generally safe....
✅ E1450 (Starch Sodium Octenyl Succinate) — A modified starch used as an emulsifier in beverages and flavor encapsulation....
✅ Gelatin — A protein from animal collagen used in gummy candy, marshmallows, and Jell-O. No...

Vitamins (14)

✅ Folic Acid — Synthetic form of folate (vitamin B9) added to enriched grains. Essential for pr...
✅ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) — A form of niacin added to enriched bread and cereals. Essential vitamin. Safe an...
✅ Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1) — A synthetic form of thiamine used in flour enrichment. Essential vitamin. Very s...
✅ Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) — Added to enriched flour and cereals as a nutrient supplement. Essential vitamin....
✅ Vitamin A (Retinol) — Essential fat-soluble vitamin for vision and immunity. Excess intake can cause l...
✅ Vitamin D — Fat-soluble vitamin essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Most Ameri...
✅ Vitamin E — Fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin. Found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. Prote...
✅ Vitamin K — Essential for blood clotting and bone health. Found in leafy greens (K1) and fer...
✅ Vitamin C — Water-soluble antioxidant essential for immune function and collagen synthesis. ...
✅ Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) — Essential for protein metabolism and brain function. Found in poultry, fish, and...
✅ Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) — Essential vitamin found only in animal products. Deficiency common in vegans. Cr...
✅ Biotin (Vitamin B7) — B vitamin important for hair, skin, and nail health. Found in eggs, nuts, and wh...
✅ Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) — B vitamin essential for energy metabolism. Found in nearly all foods. Deficiency...
✅ Choline — Essential nutrient for brain development and liver function. Found in eggs, live...