Additive guide

What's really on the label?

Plain-language explanations of the artificial dyes, preservatives, and additives we flag — what they are, why they're a concern, and what to look for instead.

Artificial dyes

Preservatives

High BHA & BHT Synthetic antioxidants restricted in much of the world.
High Sodium nitrite & nitrate The curing salts behind the WHO's "processed meat" warning.
High Potassium bromate Bread "dough conditioner" banned almost everywhere but the U.S.

Sugars

High High fructose corn syrup Cheap industrial sweetener tied to the rise in added-sugar consumption.
Medium Maltodextrin Hidden refined carb with a higher glycemic index than table sugar.

Artificial sweeteners

Industrial fats

High Trans fats & hydrogenated oils FDA-banned in 2018, but the "0g" label loophole still hides traces.

Flavor enhancers

Thickeners & stabilizers

We're building this guide out one additive at a time. Bookmark this page, or paste any ingredient list into the analyzer to flag additives we may not have covered yet.