Natural Preservative
Generic 'natural preservative' on labels lacks specificity. While individual natural preservatives (rosemary extract, citric acid, vinegar, etc.) are typically GRAS, the umbrella term obscures which specific compound is used and at what level, making per-product risk assessment difficult.
What it is
'Natural preservative' is a generic ingredient term referring to a class of substances (e.g., rosemary extract, vinegar, citric acid, cultured dextrose, plant essential oils) used to extend shelf life.
Inhibits microbial growth or oxidation in foods.
What regulators actually say
"A food which contains a chemical preservative shall ... bear a label declaration stating both the common or usual name of the ingredient(s) and a separate description of its function."
"Food additives shall be designated by their specific name and E number in the list of ingredients."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
FDA does not formally define 'natural'; preservatives must be declared by name on label per 21 CFR 101.22(j)
European Union — EFSA
Authorized preservatives must be declared with E-number or specific name per Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008
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