The Ingredient List: Your Main Tool
In both the US and EU, manufacturers must list all ingredients in descending order of weight. Additives must be declared by their functional class (e.g., 'Color', 'Preservative', 'Emulsifier') followed by either their specific name or E-number (EU) or common name (US).
For example, you might see: 'Colors: E102, E110' or 'Colors: Tartrazine, Sunset Yellow FCF' ā both mean the same thing.
Decoding the Functional Classes
Common functional class names on labels:
ā¢ Color / Colour / Coloring ā food dyes
ā¢ Preservative ā antimicrobials or antioxidants to extend shelf life
ā¢ Antioxidant ā prevents oxidation/rancidity
ā¢ Emulsifier ā helps mix water and fat
ā¢ Stabilizer / Stabiliser ā maintains texture and consistency
ā¢ Thickener ā increases viscosity
ā¢ Sweetener ā sugar substitute
ā¢ Flavor enhancer / Flavour enhancer ā umami/taste booster
ā¢ Anti-caking agent ā prevents clumping
ā¢ Raising agent / Leavening agent ā causes baked goods to rise
ā¢ Acidity regulator ā controls pH
ā¢ Glazing agent ā coating for shine/protection
US vs. EU Label Differences
US labels (FDA): Additives must be listed by common or usual name (e.g., 'Yellow 5', 'sodium benzoate', 'monosodium glutamate'). No E-numbers are used. The label must declare FD&C color certifications.
EU labels (EFSA): Additives can be listed by E-number or name. Must declare the functional class. For the Southampton Six dyes, EU law requires: 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.'
UK (post-Brexit): Follows EU-style labeling with some adaptations.
Key Things to Look For
Quick checklist when evaluating a product:
ā How long is the ingredient list? (Shorter often means less processed)
ā Are there artificial colors listed? (E1xx range or FD&C dyes)
ā Are there multiple preservatives? (Can indicate highly processed)
ā Is there a hyperactivity warning? (Mandatory in EU for Southampton Six)
ā Are allergen-relevant additives present? (Sulfites, lactose-derived emulsifiers)
ā Check for hidden animal products if vegan: some emulsifiers (E471), colors (E120 cochineal), and glazing agents (E901 beeswax) are animal-derived