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FOOD ADDITIVE DECODER

"Even a small star shines in the darkness." - Finnish Proverb

Do you know what those numbers on food labels mean? Have you any idea what those ingredients are and what they could do to your body?

Check out the Food Additive Decoder for a complete run-down on ingredients in the foods you are eating. Use this decoder to make more informed, healthier choices for yourself and your family.

* AZO dye - The ADD (Hyperactive) Children's Support Group List of Additives recommend that AZO dyes be avoided because ingesting these substances can often cause a negative reaction. Children, aspirin-sensitive individuals, and people who suffer from eczema and asthma are most at risk. Allergic reactions include skin rashes, hayfever, swollen blood vessels, breathing problems, upset stomach and vomiting. **It is important to note these substances have all been tested on  non-human animals, therefore, it is not assured that these additives will not cause adverse, even severe, reactions in humans.

COLOURS 100 - 181

100  CURCUMIN - A plant extract  with no known harmful effects. 100 TUMERIC - A plant extract  with no known harmful effects.
101RIBOFLAVIN-5'-PHOSPHATE-SODIUM -No known adverse effects.
102 TARTRAZINE - Synthetic AZO dye*. Adverse reactions in humans.
104 QUINOLINE YELLOW—Synthetic COAL TAR dye. No known adverse effects**.
107 YELLOW 2G - Synthetic AZO*  & COAL TAR dye. Adverse reactions in humans.
110  SUNSET YELLOW FCF— Synthetic, AZO and COAL TAR dye. Adverse reactions.
120 COCHINEAL - Dye made from an extract taken from bodies of pregnant scale insects, reacted with  aluminium to produce carmine **.
122 AZORUBINE - Synthetic  AZO dye. Adverse reactions.
123 AMARANTH - Synthetic  AZO & COAL TAR dye banned in several countries.
124 PONCEAU 4R - Synthetic  AZO & COAL TAR dye. Adverse reactions in humans.
127 ERYTHROSINE - Synthetic COAL TAR dye. It is believed that it may cause an over-active thyroid because of its high iodine content. It may also cause mild brain dysfunction in children. 128 RED 2G - Synthetic AZO & COAL TAR dye. It may interfere with haemoglobin.
129 ALLURA RED AC -This substance does not appear on the National Health and Medical Councils list of approved additives.
E131 PATENT BLUE V - Synthetic  COAL TAR dye. Adverse  reactions in humans.
132 INDIGOTINE - Synthetic COAL TAR dye. Adverse reactions in humans. Allergic responses include high-blood pressure, rashes, itching, nausea  and vomiting.
133 BRILLIANT BLUE FCF—Synthetic COAL TAR dye. No known harmful reactions**.
140 CHLOROPHYLL—A plant extract which is believed to be beneficial to human health. It has always been as essential part of the human diet, and is used in natural treatments to purify the blood and help alleviate  circulatory problems.
 E141 COPPER COMPLEXES OF CHLOROPHYLL AND CHLOROPHYLLINS - Produced by extracting substances from lucerne and replacing the magnesium content with copper. No known adverse effects**.
142 GREEN S - Synthetic COAL TAR dye. No known severe reaction**.
150 CARAMEL—This is not to be confused with the caramel sweet produced by heating sugar {See 150(a)-(c) and  E150}.
E150(a) PLAIN (Caramel) - No known adverse responses.
E150(b) CAUSTIC SULPHITE CARAMEL - Is known to have caused gastro-intestinal upsets in humans.
E150(c) AMMONIA CARAMEL—Has been known to cause allergic reactions including hives and rashes. A common additive in many frozen and cool-storage convenience and low-calorie meals. Adverse reactions**.
E150 SULPHITE AMMONIA CARAMEL - Has been known to cause allergic reactions including hives and rashes. A common additive in many frozen and cool-storage convenience and low-calorie meals. Adverse reactions**.
151 BRILLIANT BLACK  BN -Synthetic AZO & COAL TAR dye. Adverse reactions in humans.
153 CARBON BLACK - Banned in the USA. Believed to be carcinogenic.
E154 BROWN FK - Synthetic additive which contains six AZO dyes. Adverse reactions in humans.
155 BROWN HT - Synthetic AZO & COAL TAR dye. Adverse reactions in humans.
160(a) a-CAROTENE, _-CAROTENE, y-CAROTENE - A plant extract which is not known to be harmful to humans (unless taken in huge regular doses, in which the skin becomes orange-yellow and the subject may begin to feel ill). These substances are included in some natural preparations for the treatment of cancer and other  health disorders.
160(b) ANNATTO - A plant extract  with no known harmful effects.
160(c)CAPSANTHIN - A plant extract with no known harmful effects.
160(d) LYCOPENE - A plant extract with no known harmful effects.
160(e)  _-APA-8´-CAROTENAL—Synthesized additive**.
160(f)  _-APO-8´-CAROTENOIC ACID ETHYL ESTER -Synthesized additive with no known harmful effects**.
161 XANTHOPHYLLS- FLAVOXANTHIN - A natural substance with no known harmful effects.

161XANTHOPHYLLS-LUTEIN - A plant extract with no known harmful effects.

161XANTHOPHYLLS-CRYPTOXANTHIN - A natural substance with no known harmful effects.

161XANTHOPHYLLS-RUBIXANTHIN - A plant extract, no known harmful effects.

161XANTHOPHYLLS-VIOLAXANTHIN - A plant extract, no known harmful effects.

161XANTHOPHYLLS-RHODOXANTHIN - A plant extract, no known harmful effects.

161(g) XANTHOPHYLLS CANTHAXANTHIN - Adverse effects in humans.
162  BEET RED - A plant extract, contains sodium nitrate**.
163 ANTHOCYANINS - A plant extract, no known harmful effects.
170 CALCIUM CARBONATE (CHALK) - A white mineral with no known harmful effects**.
171 TITANIUM DIOXIDE - This additive is produced using the mineral ilmenite. It has no known harmful effects**.
172 IRON OXIDES - Iron pigments with no known harmful effects**.
E173 ALUMINIUM - Produced from bauxite, this substance, when ingested is believed to contribute to such health problems as skeletal malformation, senile dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and nervous system disorders such as Parkinson's disease.
E174 SILVER - This metal, when ingested as an additive, may cause the skin to take on a blue-grey appearance. Despite this effect on the skin's colouration this additive is not  considered to be a health hazard**.
E175 GOLD - When ingested as an additive it is not known to cause an adverse reaction**.
E180 PIGMENT RUBINE—Synthetic AZO dye. Adverse reactions in humans.
181TANNIC ACID—A plant extract which can turn the skin brown if taken internally in large enough doses. This substance can hinder the absorption of iron and other nutrients as well as causing nausea and vomiting. The liver and kidney can also be damaged through the regular ingestion (in sufficient doses) of  this additive. Beer usually contains this extract.

PRESERVATIVES & FOOD ACIDS 200 - 297

200 SORBIC ACID - A substance   found in a variety of fruits which can be synthetically manufactured. No known harmful effects.
201 SODIUM SORBATE - A substance with no known harmful effects**.
202 POTASSIUM SORBATE - A preservative with no known harmful effects in humans.
203 CALCIUM SORBATE - A preservative with no known harmful effects**.
210 BENZOIC ACID - This preservative can cause gastro-intestinal problems if consumed in large amounts. Asthmatics, people who suffer from eczema and other skin rashes, and ADD (hyperactive) children should avoid this substance. It should not be taken with
222 sodium bisulphite.
211 SODIUM BENZOATE - This preservative is known to cause allergic reactions in some people. Aspirin-sensitive individuals and asthmatics should also avoid this  substance.
212 POTASSIUM BENZOATE -This preservative is known to cause allergic reactions in some people. Aspirin-sensitive individuals and asthmatics should also avoid this substance.
213  CALCIUM BENZOATE - A high proportion of humans display allergic reactions to this substance. Asthmatics, aspirin-sensitive people and those who suffer from recurrent urticaria should avoid this preservative.
E214 ETHYL 4- HYDROXYBENZOATE—This preservative may produce contact dermatitis, so should be avoided by suffers of urticaria or eczema, asthmatics and aspirin-sensitive people. May also cause the mouth to become insensate.
E215  ETHYL 4-HYDROXYBENZOATE, Sodium Salt - This preservative produces similar reactions as E214.
216  PROPHYLPARABEN - This preservative may numb the mouth and produce contact dermatitis.
E217 PROPYL 4-HYDROXYBENZOATE, Sodium Salt—This preservative can produce allergic reactions.
218 METHYLPARABEN -  A synthetic preservative which may cause allergic reactions.
E219 METHYL 4-HYDROXYBENZOATE—This substance is known to have caused allergic reactions when ingested or applied to the skin. It may also cause the mouth to become numb for a short period.
220 SULPHUR DIOXIDE - Can reduce or destroy certain vitamins in treated foods, cause gastric irritation, aggravate problems caused by liver and kidney damage, and induce attacks in asthma sufferers.
221 SODIUM SULPHITE - This substance may cause nausea, diarrhoea, allergic reactions, gastro-intestinal problems, aggravate problems caused by liver and kidney damage, and produce asthma attacks in asthmatics.
222 SODIUM BISULPHITE -This preservative may cause allergic reactions and in large doses can be extremely dangerous to asthmatics. People with liver and kidney disorders should avoid this substance.
223 SODIUM METABISULPHITE—A preservative which is known to reduce treated foods' vitamin B1 content, causes allergic reactions, irritates kidney and  liver disorders and produces asthma attacks in asthmatics.
224 POTASSIUM METABISULPHITE—Allergic responses include rashes, worsening of kidney and liver disorders, cause asthma attacks in asthmatics, gastro-intestinal irritation, reduces food's vitamin B1.
225 POTASSIUM SULPHITE - Adverse reactions similar to 224.
E226 CALCIUM SULPHITE - Adverse reactions similar to 224.
E227 CALCIUM HYDROGEN SULPHITE - Similar adverse reactions to 224.
228 POTASSIUM BISULPHITE - Can irritate the gastro-intestinal tract, aggravate kidney and liver disorders, cause food aversion and produce asthma attacks in asthmatics.
E230 BIPHENYL—This substance can cause eye irritation, nausea and vomiting. This preservative and fungicidal agent can penetrate treated fruit.
231 2-HYDROXYBIPHENYL - A preservative with no known harmful effects**.
E232 SODIUM BIPHENYL-2-YL OXIDE - Synthetic preservative with no known harmful effects**. E233 2-(THIAZOL-4-YL) BENZIMIDAZOLE - Adverse reactions**.
234 NISIN - A preservative with no known harmful effects**.
235 NATAMYCIN - May cause skin irritation, and when ingested may lead to diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and anorexia.
E236 FORMIC ACID - Avoid contact with the skin as this substance is corrosive, and when assimilated into the body causes urinary problems.
E237 SODIUM FORMATE - A preservative with no known harmful effects**.
E238 CALCIUM FORMATE - A preservative with no known harmful effects**.
E239 HEXAMINE—This preservative may cause gastro-intestinal problems, urinary tract problems and skin rashes. It may also be carcinogenic.
249 POTASSIUM NITRITE - This substance cannot be included in children's foods. It hinders the transport of oxygen within the blood, so may cause breathing difficulties, headaches & dizziness. Considered to be potentially carcinogenic. Nitrites and nitrates are used to prevent growth of noxious micro-organisms in meat products.
250 SODIUM NITRITE - Same properties and adverse effects as 249.
251 SODIUM NITRATE - Same properties and adverse effects as 249.
252 POTASSIUM NITRATE - This preservative has the same properties and adverse effects as 249. It may also cause muscular weakness, vertigo, irregular pulse, anaemia, kidney and gastro-intestinal tract disorders, pain and vomiting.
260 ACETIC ACID - No known adverse effects**.
261POTASSIUM ACETATE - This substance is not believed to have harmful effects** but individuals with kidney disorders are advised not to consume this substance.
262  SODIUM HYDROGEN DIACETATE - A substance with no known harmful effects**.
262 SODIUM ACETATE - This substance has no known harmful effects**.
 263 CALCIUM ACETATE - This substance has no known harmful effects**.
264 AMMONIUM ACETATE— Large doses can cause stomach irritation, nausea and vomiting. 270 LACTIC ACID - Has no adverse effect on adults but not recommended for children.
280 PROPIONIC ACID - A preservative with no known harmful effects.
281SODIUM PROPIONATE - A preservative which may cause migraine headaches**.
282 CALCIUM PROPIONATE - A preservative which may cause migraine headaches**.
283 POTASSIUM PROPIONATE - This substance may cause migraine headaches**.
290 CARBON DIOXIDE - This substance may heighten adverse bodily reactions to alcohol.
296 DL-MALIC ACID - No known adverse effects in adults but infants should not be given foodstuffs containing this substance.
297 FUMARIC ACID - This substance has no known harmful effects.

ANTIOXIDANTS, FOOD ACIDS & MINERAL SALTS 300 - 385

 300 ASCORBIC ACID - Vitamin C - A substance essential for good health but in very large doses may cause stomach upsets, tooth decay and kidney stones.
301 SODIUM ASCORBATE - Vitamin C - This synthetic substance has no known harmful effects. 302 CALCIUM ASCORBATE - Vitamin C - A synthetic substance which may, in large doses, cause the production of calcium oxalate stones.
303 POTASSIUM ASCORBATE - Vitamin C -  This substance has no known harmful effects.
304 ASCORBYL PALMITATE - This substance has no known harmful effects**.
306 TOCOPHEROLS CONCENTRATE, MIXED - Vitamin E - A substance essential to good health but in large doses (because it is stored in the fatty tissues rather than the excess being excreted through urination) could cause health problems.
307 a-TOCOPHEROL - Vitamin E - This substance has the same properties as 306.
308 y-TOCOPHEROL - Vitamin E - This substance is considered less effective than 306 & 307 but with the same properties to assist the bodily system.
309 δ-TOCOPHEROL - Vitamin E—This substance has the same properties as 306.
310 PROPYL GALLATE - Inclusion of this substance in children's food is not permitted. It may irritate the skin and the gastro-intestinal tract. This substance should be avoided by aspirin-sensitive people and asthmatics.
311 OCTYL GALLATE - An antioxidant with the same adverse effects as 310.
312 DODECYL GALLATE - An antioxidant with the same adverse effects as 310.
317 ERYTHORBIC ACID - This antioxidant has no known  harmful effects.
318 SODIUM ERYTHORBATE - An antioxidant with no known  harmful effects.
 319 TERT-BUTYLHYDROQUINONE - Adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, delirium, ringing in the ears and collapse, even death (at a dose of 5g) and is suspected of causing gene mutation. 320 BUTYLATED HYDROXYANISOLE - Is not  permitted in children's food (except to preserve vitamin A),  and it is suspected that it may  cause toxicity problems in humans**.
321 BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENCE -   This synthetic substance** may  cause skin rashes and should be avoided by asthmatics and aspirin-sensitive people. The  inclusion of 321 in children's  food is not permitted.
322 LECITHINS - A natural  substance used successfully to treat a number of health disorders. Considered beneficial  in the fight against high  cholesterol levels and heart disease.
325 SODIUM LACTATE - A  substance not recommended for young children.
326 POTASSIUM LACTATE - A  substance not recommended for  young children.
327 CALCIUM LACTATE - An antioxidant which may cause  gastric upsets.
328 AMMONIUM LACTATE - A  substance which has no known  adverse effect on adults but not  recommended for young  children.
329 MAGNESIUM LACTATE - A  substance which has no known  adverse effect on adults but not  recommended for young  children.
330 CITRIC ACID - A natural  substance which may in  extremely large doses cause tooth decay. 331 SODIUM CITRATES - Sodium Dihydrogen Citrate - This substance can reduce the effectiveness of some drugs and increase the toxicity of others.
331 SODIUM CITRATES - Disodium Citrate - This substance has no known harmful effects.
 331 SODIUM CITRATES - Trisodium Citrate - This substance has no known harmful effects.
332  POTASSIUM DIHYDROGEN CITRATE - This substance has no known harmful effects**.
332  POTASSIUM CITRATE - This substance may cause mouth ulcers or skin sensitivity.
333  MONO-, DI-, AND TRI- CALCIUM CITRATES -This substance may cause mouth ulcers. 
334  TARTARIC ACID - This substance is non-toxic but can cause gastric if too large a dose of concentrated solution is ingested. 335  SODIUM TARTRATE - This antioxidant has no known harmful effects. 336  POTASSIUM ACID TARTRATE - This substance has no known harmful effects**. 337  POTASSIUM SODIUM TARTRATE  - This substance has no known harmful effects. 338  PHOSPHORIC ACID - This substance has no known harmful effects**.
339  SODIUM PHOSPHATE, MONOBASIC - Too much of this additive may adversely effect the body's balance of calcium/phosphorus.
339  SODIUM PHOSPHATE DIBASIC - This substance has the same effect as Monobasic.
339  SODIUM PHOSPHATE TRIBASIC - This substance has the same effect on the body as Monobasic. 340  POTASSIUM PHOSPHATE, MONOBASIC - This substance may have the same effect on the body's equilibrium as 339.
340  POTASSIUM PHOSPHATE, DIBASIC - This substance may have the same effect on the body's equilibrium as 339.
340  POTASSIUM PHOSPHATE,   TRIBASIC - This substance has  no known adverse effects. 341  CALCIUM PHOSPHATE,  MONOBASIC - This substance  has no known adverse effects. 341  CALCIUM PHOSPHATE,  DIBASIC - This substance has  no known adverse effects.
341  CALCIUM PHOSPHATE, TRIBASIC - This substance has  no known adverse effects
343  MAGNESIUM PHOSPHATE,  DIBASIC - This substance has  no known adverse effects.
343  MAGNESIUM PHOSPHATE  TRIBASIC - This additive has  no known adverse effects.
350  DL-SODIUM HYDROGEN MALATE - No known harmful effects**.
351  DL-POTASSIUM MALATE -  This additive has no known  harmful effects**.
352  DL-CALCIUM MALATE - This additive has no known  harmful effects**.
353  METATARTARIC ACID - This additive has no known   adverse effects.
355  ADIPIC ACID - This additive  has no known adverse effects.
357  POTASSIUM ADIPATE - This substance has no known adverse effects.
 E363 SUCCINIC ACID - This  substance has no known adverse  effects.
365 SODIUM FUMARATE - This substance has no known adverse effects.
366 POTASSIUM FUMARATE -  This substance has no known  adverse effects.
367  CALCIUM FUMARATE -  This additive has no known  adverse effects.
E370 1,4-HEPTONOLACTONE -  This additive has no known  adverse effects**.
375  NIACIN - As a food additive this substance has no adverse effects.
380  TRIAMMONIUM CITRATE -  May effect the pancreas, liver and blood in animals**.
381 AMMONIUM FERRIC  CITRATE - It (iron) is essential for good health but in excessive doses may result in tissue degeneration.
385  CALCIUM DISODIUM  ETHYLENEDIAMINE TETRAACETATE - May  cause cramps, vomiting, diarrhoea and kidney damage. 

VEGETABLE GUMS, EMULSIFIERS, MINERAL SALTS, HUMECTANTS & ANTI-CAKING AGENTS

 400 ALGINIC ACID - A vegetable gum with no known adverse  effects.
401  SODIUM ALGINATE - A  natural additive which is not  harmful to the system, except  when taken in large doses, in  which it will hinder the intake  of some important nutrients.
402  POTASSIUM ALGINATE -  This additive has similar properties to 401.
403  AMMONIUM ALGINATE— This additive has similar properties to 401.
404  CALCIUM ALGINATE - This additive has similar properties to 401.
405  PROPYLENE GLYCOL ALGINATE - This additive has no known harmful effects.
 415  XANTHAN GUM - This  substance has no known harmful effects.
 416  KARAYA GUM - This substance has no harmful  effects, however some individuals have exhibited allergic reactions to this additive.
420  SORBITOL & SORBITOL  SYRUP - This substance may  cause gastric in some people, and in large doses may induce flatulence.
421  MANNITOL - This substance may not be included in  children's food. Some people may suffer from diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, and  aggravate kidney disorders.
422  GLYCERIN - This substance, which makes an excellent moisturiser,  has no harmful effects, but when  ingested in very large quantities may cause nausea, thirst and headache.
E432 POLYSORBATE 20 - This substance has no known harmful effects**.
433  POLYSORBATE 80 - This substance has no known harmful  effects**.
406  AGAR - This natural substance derived from seaweed has no harmful effects but may cause  flatulence if taken in large amounts, and may hinder the intake of some nutrients if the quantities ingested are excessive. Agar is often used as the vegan alternative to gelatine (which is commonly  derived  from slaughterhouse products such as animal hooves and horns).
407  CARRAGEENAN - Native carrageenan (irish moss) has no known adverse effects**. Degraded carrageenan can cause health problems**.
410  LOCUST BEAN GUM - No known harmful effects, but in very large amounts may hinder the absorption of certain nutrients.
412  GUAR GUM - Plant extract  which only causes problems when ingested in extremely large doses when it may cause flatulence, cramps and  nausea.
413  TRAGACANTH - Plant extract  without toxicity problems,  however if ingested in large amounts may cause flatulence,  constipation or diarrhoea, and  when applied to the skin may cause contact dermatitis.
414  ACACIA - No harmful effects but some exhibit hyper-sensitivity to acacia (gum arabic).   
E434  POLYSORBATE 40 - This substance has no known harmful effects**.
435   POLYSORBATE 60 - This substance has no known harmful effects**.
436   POLYSORBATE 65 - This substance has no known  harmful effects**.
440(a) PECTIN - This substance has no known harmful effects,  however, if taken in large doses to lower blood cholesterol levels may cause flatulence.
440(b) AMIDATED PECTIN - This substance has no known  harmful effects.
441   GELATINE - Allergic reactions to this substance are not  uncommon. Asthmatics and aspirin-sensitive people should avoid this additive. This additive is not suitable for  vegetarians or vegans.
442 AMMONIUM SALTS OF  PHOSPHATIDIC ACID - No known harmful effects**.
450  SODIUM ACID PYROPHOSPHATE/ TRISODIUM  DISPHOPHATE/ SODIUM PYROPHOSPHATE/POTASSIUM PYROPHOSPHATE/SODIUM TRIPOLYPHOSPHATE/POTASSIUM        TRIPOLYPHOSPHATE/SODIUM POLYPHOSPHATES/POTASSIUM POLYPHOSPHATES - These substances have no known harmful effects on the human species**.
450(a)AMMONIUM PHOSPHATE MONOBASIC & DIBASIC -  This substance has no known  harmful effects but the ingestion of excessive amounts may upset the body's balance of calcium and phosphorus. 
460 MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE/ POWDERED CELLULOSE - Both of these substances have no known  harmful effects.
461  METHYLCELLULOSE - Large amounts of this substance may cause flatulence or obstruction of the intestinal tract.
464  HYDROXY-  PROPYLMETHYL- CELLULOSE - This substance has no known harmful effects.
465  METHYLETHYL- CELLULOSE - This substance has no known harmful effects.
466  SODIUM  CARBOXYMETHYL-CELLULOSE - This substance has no known harmful effects. 469  SODIUM CASEINATE - This substance has no known harmful effects.
E470 SODIUM, POTASSIUM AND CALCIUM SALTS OF FATTY ACIDS - These substances have no known harmful effects
471   MONO- & DI-GLYCERIDES OF FAT-FORMING FATTY ACIDS - These substances have no known harmful effects.
472(a)ACETIC & FATTY ACID ESTERS OF GLYCEROL -  No known adverse effects. 472(b)LACTIC & FATTY ACID ESTERS OF GLYCEROL -  No known adverse effects. 472(c)CITRIC & FATTY ACID ESTERS OF GLYCEROL - These substances have no known adverse effects.
472(d)TARTARIC & FATTY ACID ESTERS OF GLYCEROL -  No known adverse effects. 472(e)DIACETYLTARTIC &  FATTY ACID - No known adverse effects.
473 SUCROSE ESTERS OF  FATTY ACIDS - No known adverse effects.
E474  SUCROGLYCERIDES - These substances have no known harmful effects**.
475   POLYCLYCEROL ESTERS OF FATTY ACIDS - No  known adverse effects
476   POLYGLYCEROL ESTERS OF INTERESTERIFIED RICINOLEIC ACID - No known adverse effects.
E477 PROPAINS-1, 2, -DIOL ESTERS OF FATTY ACIDS - These substances have no known adverse effects.
480  DIOCTYL SODIUM  SULPHOSUCCINATE - This substance has no known harmful effects 481  SODIUM STEAROYL LACTYLATE - No known harmful effects.
482  CALCIUM STEAROYL LACTYLATE - This substance  has no known harmful effects
E483 STEARYL TARTRATE - This substance has no known adverse effects.
491 SORBITAN MONOSTEARATE - No known harmful effects
492 SORBITAN TRISTEARATE - This substance has no known harmful effects
E493 SORBITAN MONOLAURATE - No known harmful effects.
E494 SORBITAN MONO-OLEATE  - This substance has no known  harmful effects.
E495 SORBITAN  MONOPALMITATE - This substance has no known harmful effects.   
 
MINERAL SALTS & CAKING AGENTS 500 - 579 

500 SODIUM CARBONATE -  Ingested in small doses, this substance has no harmful  effects, however in large quantities can induce circulatory disorders, disturbances in the gastro-intestinal tract and  corrosion of the gut.
500 SODIUM BICARBONATE -  This substance has no adverse effects in normal application.
500  SODIUM  SESQUICARBONATE - No known adverse effects.
501  POTASSIUM CARBONATE &  POTASSIUM HYDROGEN CARBONATE - This substance has no known adverse effects
503  AMMONIUM CARBONATE -  This substance may cause a  slight change in the pH of urine. 503  AMMONIUM BIOCARBONATE - This substance acts on the mucous  membranes, and may also cause a slight change in the pH of  urine.
504  MAGNESIUM CARBONATE - No known harmful effects when used in small dosages
507  HYDROCHLORIC ACID -  This substance is used in very small amounts so is not  considered to be harmful. In  larger amounts this substance is  recognized as extremely dangerous.
508  POTASSIUM CHLORIDE - This substance in large amounts can cause ulcers in the gastro– intestinal tract, haemorrhages,  nausea and vomiting.
509  CALCIUM CHLORIDE - This substance has no known harmful effects.
510  AMMONIUM CHLORIDE - This substance can aggravate kidney and liver disorders.
511  MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE -  This substance has no known  adverse effects.
E513 SULPHURIC ACID - In very small amounts it is not considered to be harmful. In larger amounts this substance is recognized as extremely hazardous to health.
514  SODIUM SULPHATE - Large sodium intake can effect the circulatory system, aggravate kidney & heart problems, &  cause fluid retention.
515  POTASSIUM SULPHATE - No known harmful effects.
516  CALCIUM SULPHATE - No known harmful effects.
518  MAGNESIUM SULPHATE  or Epsom Salts - No known harmful effects, however, people with kidney problems should not ingest this substance.
519  CUPRIC SULPHATE - It is essential for good health but in  large doses cupric or copper sulphate may cause hyper-tension, nausea, bloody  diarrhoea, colic, irritation to  mucous membranes and coma.
E524 SODIUM HYDROXIDE - Although this is a corrosive substance, it is used in such small amounts in processing of  food that it is not considered to be harmful
E525 POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE - This substance has similar properties to E524.
526  CALCIUM HYDROXIDE - This substance has similar properties to E524.
E527 AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE - Similar properties to E524. E528 MAGNESIUM  HYDROXIDE - Similar properties to E524.
529  CALCIUM OXIDE - This  substance has similar properties to E524.
E530 MAGNESIUM OXIDE - This substance has no known harmful effects.
E535 SODIUM FERROCYANIDE - May hinder the transportation of oxygen in the body.
536  POTASSIUM FERROCYANIDE - This substance may hinder the  transportation of oxygen in the body. E540 DICALCIUM DIPHOSPHATE - This substance is considered unlikely  to cause an adverse reaction. E541   SODIUM ALUMINIUM  PHOSPHATE - May effect the body in similar ways to 541.
542 BONE PHOSPHATE - No known adverse effects.
E544 CALCIUM POLYPHOSPHATES - No known adverse effects.
E545 AMMONIUM  POLYPHOSPHATES - Too much of this additive may  adversely effect the body's balance of calcium/phosphorus.
551 SILICON DIOXIDE - No known adverse effect when used in small doses.
552 CALCIUM SILICATE - No known harmful effects
E553(a)MAGNESIUM SILICATE & MAGNESIUM  TRISILICATE - No known harmful effects. 553(b)TALC - This substance may  cause stomach cancer.
554 SODIUM ALUMINOSILICATE - It may  contribute to such health problems as skeletal  malformation, Alzheimer's disease, & nervous system disorders e.g. Parkinson's disease.
556  CALCIUM ALUMINIUM SILICATE - May cause similar problems to 554 and aggravate kidney disorders & bone disease.
558  BENTONITE - No known harmful effects.
559  KAOLIN - Refined clay. No known harmful effects.
570  STEARIC ACID - No known harmful effects.
572  MAGNESIUM STEARATE - Inhalation can be detrimental but ingestion is believed to be without adverse effect.
575  GLUCONO DELTA-LACTONE - No adv. effects.
E576 SODIUM GLUCONATE - No known harmful effects
E576 SODIUM GLUCONATE - No known harmful effects.
577  POTASSIUM GLUCONATE - No known adverse effects.
578  CALCIUM GLUCONATE - No known adverse effects. 579  FERROUS GLUCONATE - May cause constipation, nausea, stomach upsets, vomiting and diarrhoea.  


FLAVOUR ENHANCERS 620-637

620 L-GLUTAMIC ACID - This amino acid plays a vital role in plant and metabolic processes,  however, as an additive to foodstuffs, it is not  recommended for young children.
621  MONOSODIUM  GLUTAMATE - It has been attributed to causing headaches,  nausea and dizziness, and inducing severe asthma attacks  in asthmatics.
622  MONOPOTASSIUM  GLUTAMATE - It may  cause nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting,  cramps and stomach upsets. It should be avoided by individuals  with kidney disorders.
624  MONOAMMONIUM L- GLUTAMATE - No known harmful effects**.
625  MAGNESIUM DI-L-GLUTAMATE - No known harmful effects**.
627  DISODIUM GUANYLATE -  The inclusion of this substance in young children's food is not permitted. This flavour  enhancer should be avoided by  sufferers of gout and other disorders which require the avoidance of purines.
631  DISODIUM INOSINATE -  This substance has similar properties to 627.
E635 SODIUM 5´ RIBONUCLEOTIDE - This substance has similar properties to 627.
636  MALTOL - This substance has no known adverse effects.
637  ETHYL MALTOL - This substance has no known harmful effects.    

BLEACHING AGENTS, FLOUR TREATMENT AGENTS, PROPELLANTS & OTHERS 900-1202   900  DIMETHYLPOLYSILOXANE - This substance has no known harmful effects**.
901  BEESWAX - No known adverse effects but some  individuals may be sensitive to the wax resins.
903  CARNAUBA WAX - This substance may cause skin irritation in some individuals.
904  SHELLAC - This substance has no known serious effects, however, it is possible that shellac may  irritate the skin.
905  MINERAL OIL, WHITE - Large doses may cause anal  irritation and seepage, and evidence also suggests that this substance, when ingested, may  contribute to the development of bowel cancer.
E907 REFINED MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX - Suspected of being a cancer-inducing agent.
920  L-CYSTEINE HYDROCHLORIDE & L- CYSTEINE HYDROCHLORIDE  MONOHYDRATE - No known harmful effects.
924  POTASSIUM BROMATE -  This substance may cause pain,  convulsion, nausea and vomiting in larger, stronger doses.
925  CHLORINE - When used in the processing of foodstuffs this substance drastically reduces the vitamin E content. Chlorine is  suspected of being a cancer- inducing agent and the inhalation of this substance is extremely harmful.
926  CHLORINE DIOXIDE - When used in the processing of  foodstuffs this substance drastically reduces the vitamin E content as well as other  nutrients. It also irritates the respiratory system's mucous membranes.
E927  AZODICARBONAMIDE - This substance has no known  harmful effects.**.
928  BENZOYL PEROXIDE - The small amounts used in processing food is not believed to be a health risk**.
931  NITROGEN - Because of the nature of this gas and the small amounts used in the processing of food, this substance is believed to be of no risk to health.
932  NITROUS OXIDE - Because only small amounts are used in processing, it is not believed to be a health risk**.
965  HYDROGENTATED GLUCOSE SYRUP - No adverse effects.
967  XYLITOL - This substance may  cause diarrhoea and stomach pain. It is also suspected to contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
1200 POLYDEXTROSE - This substance has no known harmful effects**.
1201 POLYVINYL-PYRROLIDONE - This substance is believed to be non-toxic despite being produced using formaldehyde, acetylene and ammonia**.
1202 POLYVINYL POLYPYRROLIDONE - This substance has no known  harmful effects**.  

THICKENERS (MODIFIED STARCHES) 1400-1450

1400 DEXTRINS - No known adverse effects.
1403 BLEACHED STARCH - If sulphur dioxide has been added this substance may induce asthma attacks in asthmatics.
1404 OXIDISED STARCH - If sulphiting agents have been added, this substance may induce asthma attacks in asthmatics.
1405 ENZYME-TREATED  STARCHES - No known adverse effects.
1410 MONOSTARCH  PHOSPHATE - No known  adverse effects.
1412 DISTARCH PHOSPHATE ESTERIFIED WITH SODIUM  TRIMETAPHOSPHATE - No known adverse effects.
1413 PHOSPHATED DISTARCH PHOSPHATE - No known  adverse effects.
1414 ACETYLATED DISTARCH PHOSPHATE - No known adverse effects.
1420 STARCH ACETATE  ESTERIFIED WITH ACETIC ANHYDRIDE - No known  adverse effects. 1421 STARCH ACETATE  ESTERIFIED WITH VINYL ACETATE - No known  harmful effects**. 1422 ACETYLATED DISTARCH ADIPATE - No known  harmful effects**.
1440 HYDROXYPROPYL  STARCH - No known harmful effects**.
1442 HYDROXYPROPYL DISTARCH PHOSPHATE - No known harmful effects**.
1450 STARCH, SODIUM  OCTENYL-SUCCINATE - No known adverse effects**.   

MISCELLANEOUS ADDITIVES 1505-1520

1505 TRIETHYL CITRATE - No known harmful effects**.
1510 ETHYL ALCOHOL - It may  cause impaired co-ordination, depression, nausea, vomiting and coma.
1517 GLYCEROL DIACETATE  - No known harmful  effects**.
1518 TRIACETIN - This  substance has no known  harmful effects**.
1520 PROPYLENE GLYCOL - This  substance may cause kidney  failure and problems with the central nervous system.

 Above Food Additive Decoder reprinted from “The Source of Life” by Sarina Damen. Decoder originally titled, "Identifying Food Additives".