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Safety and Regulatory Aspects

Uses in Veterinary Medicine

Despite being a weak acid, citric acid generally does not pose health risks when consumed within normal dietary limits. However, excessive intake might lead to discomfort or digestive issues in some individuals. As with all food additives, monitoring and regulating usage levels is crucial to ensure safety.

Benzoic acid (C6H5COOH) is a colorless crystalline solid that is soluble in water at acidic pH but less so at higher pH. It exists naturally in various fruits, particularly in cranberries, prunes, and some berries. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties stem from its ability to exist as a benzoate ion in its dissociated form; this ion can penetrate microbial cell membranes, disrupting their metabolic processes and ultimately leading to cell death.

Moreover, there are potential limitations in the availability and cost of organic preservatives. The production of organic materials can be more labor-intensive and resource-heavy compared to conventional preservatives. This discrepancy in cost may lead to higher prices for consumers, which can be a barrier to accessing organic food products.

The safety of food additives, including INS 635, is closely monitored by regulatory bodies. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and various national food safety authorities have reviewed extensive research and deemed INS 635 safe for consumption when used within established guidelines. However, like any food additive, it may cause adverse reactions in a small percentage of individuals, often referred to as Chinese restaurant syndrome, which includes symptoms like headaches or nausea after consuming foods high in MSG.

What is E472?