Fruit Preservative
Generic umbrella terms default to moderate severity because the specific compound is undeclared. Common fruit preservatives range widely in profile: ascorbic/citric acid (very low concern), sorbates and benzoates (low to moderate; benzoate-vitamin C interaction can form benzene), and sulfites (high concern in asthmatics, mandatory labeling >10 ppm).
What it is
Generic umbrella term referring to preservatives used in fruit preparations (could be sulfur dioxide, sorbates, benzoates, ascorbic acid, citric acid, etc.).
Inhibits microbial growth and oxidation, preserving color, flavor, and shelf life.
Why it's flagged
- If sulfites: can trigger reactions in sulfite-sensitive individuals (especially asthmatics); EU/US mandatory labeling >10 ppm
What regulators actually say
"FDA's Food Additive Status List provides regulatory status of individual preservatives commonly used in fruit products, including sulfites, sorbates, and benzoates."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Depends on identity; common preservatives are GRAS under specified use limits.
European Union — EFSA
Component-dependent; each preservative has its own authorization.
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