What are the top 10 food additives?

There are many different food additives that are commonly used in the food industry to improve the taste, texture, appearance, and shelf life of foods. Here are the top 10 most commonly used food additives:

1. Salt (sodium chloride) - used to enhance flavor and preserve food

2. Sugar (sucrose) - used to sweeten foods and enhance flavor

3. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) - used as a flavor enhancer

4. Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C) - used as an antioxidant and to prevent browning

5. Sodium Benzoate - used as a preservative to prevent spoilage

6. High Fructose Corn Syrup - used as a sweetener in processed foods and beverages

7. Carrageenan - used as a thickening agent and stabilizer in dairy products and processed foods

8. Sodium Nitrite - used as a preservative and to enhance color in cured meats

9. BHA and BHT - used as preservatives to prevent rancidity in foods containing oils and fats

10. Propyl Gallate - used as an antioxidant to prevent spoilage in fats and oils

It's worth noting that while some of these food additives have been deemed safe for consumption by regulatory agencies, others have been linked to potential health concerns and are subject to ongoing evaluation and regulation.