In many countries, E450 is considered safe for consumption when used within regulated limits. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have evaluated E450, concluding that it poses no significant health risks. However, it’s essential for consumers to be aware that excessive intake of phosphates, including E450, may lead to health concerns, particularly related to kidney function and cardiovascular health.
Both E471 and E472 possess unique properties that contribute to their effectiveness as emulsifiers. They help stabilize emulsions, reduce surface tension between oil and water phases, and promote uniformity in food products. This stabilization is crucial in preventing the separation of ingredients, ensuring a consistent texture and appearance in products such as sauces, dressings, and baked goods.
On the other hand, synthetic stabilizers, such as xanthan gum and carrageenan, are widely used in the food industry due to their effectiveness and versatility. Xanthan gum, derived from the fermentation of glucose by the bacteria Xanthomonas campestris, is commonly used in salad dressings, sauces, and gluten-free baked goods. It helps to prevent the separation of oil and vinegar in dressings and provides a creamy mouthfeel without altering the flavor of the product. Similarly, carrageenan, extracted from red seaweed, is often used in dairy products, non-dairy creamers, and processed meats to improve texture and maintain moisture.
Sorbates find extensive applications in various food sectors. They are typically used in products like cheeses, yogurt, baked goods, beverages, and salads. For instance, in the dairy industry, potassium sorbate is added to prevent the growth of molds that can spoil the product. In baked goods, it helps in maintaining freshness and preventing staleness, ultimately enhancing the product's shelf life.
Sorbates are also used in combination with benzoates in products such as non-alcoholic flavoured drinks (soft drinks), weak alcoholic drinks, liquid tea concentrates (used in dispensers), some preserved fruit and vegetable products, low sugar jams and jellies, olives and olive-based products, fish products, crustaceans, shrimps, molluscs, emulsified and non-emulsified sauces, spices, spices, mustard, prepared salads, non-heat-treated dairy-based desserts, when preserving eggs in liquid form, in dietary foods for special medical purposes, liquid food supplements and chewing gum.
E200 is the European food additive classification for Sorbic Acid, a naturally occurring compound that was first discovered in the berries of the Sorbus aucuparia (rowan tree). Sorbic acid and its salts, such as potassium sorbate, are widely used as preservatives in various food products to inhibit the growth of molds, yeasts, and certain bacteria. The antimicrobial properties of E200 make it particularly valuable in the preservation of cheeses, baked goods, beverages, and a range of processed foods.