Preservative
Also known as: antimicrobial preservative, antimicrobial synergist, antimould and antirope agent, antimycotic agent, bacteriophage control agent
An unspecified 'preservative' lacks transparency: it could mean anything from sorbates and benzoates (low concern) to nitrites or sulfites (significant concerns). EU labelling rules require the specific preservative to be named — generic 'preservative' is non-compliant in many jurisdictions.
What it is
Generic umbrella term for unspecified preservative additive(s).
Inhibits microbial growth or oxidation to extend shelf life.
What regulators actually say
"Food additives shall be designated by the name of their functional class ... followed by their specific name or, if appropriate, E number."
"Each ingredient must be listed by its common or usual name."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
FDA requires specific identification on labels
European Union — EFSA
Regulation (EC) 1333/2008 requires specific E-number disclosure
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