PRESERVATIVE ADDITIVES (PRESERVATIVES) USED IN FOOD

FOOD PRESERVATIVES – WHAT ARE THEY?

Food preservatives, also known as food additives, are special substances used in the food industry to prevent food spoilage caused by enzymes, microorganisms, and exposure to oxygen.

In general, food preservatives can be divided into two small groups: preservatives (used to inhibit the growth of microorganisms, yeast, and molds in food) and antioxidants (preventing oxidation and rancidity of food components when exposed to oxygen).

ARE FOOD PRESERVATIVES SAFE?

Approved food preservatives are non-toxic, easily soluble, do not produce unpleasant odors, exhibit antimicrobial properties within the pH range of the food, are economically viable, and practical.

Depending on the type of food and quality requirements, the appropriate type and quantity of preservative should be used according to the regulations of the Ministry of Health for that type of food additive.

SOME PRESERVATIVES USED IN FOOD:

• Sugar, salt, nitrites, BHA (butylated hydroxy anisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), TBHQ (tert-butylhydroquinone), vinegar, citric acid, and calcium propionate are all food preservatives.
• Sodium benzoate (E211), calcium propionate (E282), and potassium sorbate (E202) are used to prevent the growth of spoilage microorganisms and slow down changes in color, structure, and flavor.
• Calcium propionate effectively inhibits molds and bacteria, especially widely used in bread, extending the product’s shelf life.
• Potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate can prevent spoilage by inhibiting yeast and mold.
• Sodium benzoate can be used in foods such as salad dressings, carbonated beverages, canned salmon, and mixed dried fruits.
• Potassium sorbate is widely used in cheese, alcohol, dry meats, and various other foods.
• BHA (E320) and BHT (E321) are antioxidants that prevent the oxidation of fats in fatty products, margarine, and dry snacks like potato chips.

Several other safe preservatives allowed by the Ministry of Health include sorbic acid (E200), sodium sorbate (E201), calcium sorbate (E203), benzoic acid (E210), potassium benzoate (E212), calcium benzoate (E213), potassium nitrite (E249), sodium nitrite (E250), potassium propionate (E283), and more.

Preservatives derived from natural sources include Nisin (E234) and Natamycin (E235).

WHERE TO BUY SAFE AND REPUTABLE FOOD PRESERVATIVES, ANTIOXIDANTS?

Biozym confidently stands as a reputable importer and distributor of food preservatives, antioxidants, and food additives in general.

We always provide customers with safe and quality products at the most reasonable prices.

Currently, Biozym distributes a full range of food additives serving various food industries.

We not only supply raw materials, pure additives, but also provide technical and technological support to find the best solutions for our customers (Bring to you Know-how).

Please contact us for specific advice and the best service.

Source: Based on the scientific article “Food Processing” by Macdonald (2017), Circular 24/2019/TT-BYT, and the company’s internal documents.

Written by: Biozym technical team