Instant Mashed Potatoes
Processed potato product; depending on formulation it may contain sulfites (declarable allergen >10 ppm) and added sodium. Standard of identity at 21 CFR 155.300.
What it is
Dehydrated potato product (flakes or granules) typically containing potatoes, emulsifiers, and antioxidants such as sodium acid pyrophosphate, sodium bisulfite, and citric acid.
Convenience starch base for mashed potatoes, soups, and bakery thickening.
Why it's flagged
- added sodium
- potential sulfite preservative
- high glycemic load
What regulators actually say
"Sulfiting agents added to any food or to any ingredient in any food and that has no technical effect in that food shall be considered to be incidental additives... unless they are present in the finished food at levels of 10 parts per million or more."
"Potatoes, mashed, dehydrated, flakes without milk, dry form — Sodium 89 mg per 100 g."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Standard of identity at 21 CFR 155.300 (canned vegetables) / 21 CFR 158.170 (specifications for potato products).
European Union — EFSA
Permitted with declaration of additives and allergens (sulfites) under EU labeling rules.
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app