How we rate food additives
We translate government safety records into plain English, so you can decide in the aisle in a few seconds.
Three colors
- Generally safe (85–100): fine for most people at normal amounts.
- Use in moderation (50–84): safe in small amounts; may bother some people or raise blood sugar.
- Best to avoid (1–49): controversial, restricted or banned somewhere.
Where our information comes from
- The Open Food Facts additives taxonomy (about 600 E-numbers and their synonyms).
- The US FDA “Substances Added to Food” inventory and GRAS notices, with 21 CFR citations.
- EFSA OpenFoodTox: official daily limits (ADI) and European opinions.
- JECFA (WHO/FAO) evaluations and peer-reviewed studies cited on each page.
How diet answers work
Yes means the additive is always compatible. No means it never is. Depends means it can be made from plant or animal sources, so you need a certification on the package to be sure.
How we make money
We show ads in clearly labeled boxes and earn a commission when you buy through our Amazon links. Neither affects ratings. Read the full disclosure.
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