Ingredient lists are full of unfamiliar names. This guide explains what some of the most common additives are, why manufacturers use them, and where you will find them. All of these are permitted for use in food within limits set by regulators. Whether you choose to avoid any of them is a personal decision.
Red 40 (FD&C Red No. 40) and Yellow 5 (FD&C Yellow No. 5, also called tartrazine) are synthetic dyes used in candy, drinks, cereal, snacks and baked goods. The FDA requires certain color additives, including Yellow 5, to be listed by name on labels.
MSG (monosodium glutamate) boosts savory flavor and appears in some soups, snacks and seasonings. Refined or enriched flour is flour with the bran and germ removed, then often fortified with added vitamins.
Scan the ingredient list for names you want to watch, remember that ingredients appear in order of weight, and compare similar products side by side. Labels vary by country, so check your own market's rules.
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In the U.S. they are permitted within limits set by the FDA, though rules differ between countries and can change. Check current regulations for your region.
It is a label term for flavorings derived from natural sources such as plants or animals. The exact ingredients are not itemized on the label.
Manufacturers use them for color, shelf life, texture or taste. Simpler ingredient lists are often found on less processed foods.
CalFriendly is a food-logging and nutrition-information tool. It is not a medical device and does not provide medical advice. Guidelines mentioned here are general and may not suit your situation; consult a qualified healthcare professional about your diet or health conditions. Last reviewed 2026-10-26.