Methodology
How we compile, verify, and present food additive safety data
Data Sources
AdditiveChecker cross-references food additive data from 10 national and international regulatory agencies. Each agency independently evaluates food additives for safety within their jurisdiction. By aggregating these assessments, we provide a comprehensive, multi-perspective view of each additive's safety profile.
Regulatory Agencies Referenced
GRAS list, Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS), color additive regulations
E-number approvals, safety re-evaluations under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008
UK-specific approvals and restrictions post-Brexit
Japanese food additive designations and standards of use
Canadian food additive tables and maximum permitted levels
Schedule 15 — Substances that may be used as food additives
Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations
Korean Food Additives Code
Brazilian food additive legislation and permitted lists
Standards for Uses of Food Additives maintained by CFSA
International References
International safety evaluations, ADI values, and toxicological assessments
Independent consumer advocacy ratings and safety assessments
How Safety Ratings Are Determined
Each additive in our database receives one of three safety ratings based on a systematic review of the available evidence:
- Approved by all or nearly all major agencies
- Low scientific controversy
- No bans in major markets
- Long-established safety record
- Some studies raise concerns
- Restricted in certain jurisdictions
- Ongoing scientific debate
- May affect sensitive populations
- Banned in one or more major markets
- Significant safety concerns raised
- High scientific controversy
- Regulatory agencies disagree on safety
Ratings are determined by weighing the consensus across regulatory agencies, whether the additive is banned in any major market, the level of scientific controversy, and findings from peer-reviewed research. When agencies disagree, we lean toward the more cautious position.
Cross-Referencing Process
Our data compilation process involves the following steps:
- Primary data collection: Regulatory status is gathered from each agency's official database, published lists, and regulatory documents.
- Cross-referencing: Each additive's status is compared across all 10 jurisdictions to identify discrepancies, bans, and restrictions.
- Safety assessment: A rating is assigned based on the aggregate regulatory consensus, scientific literature, and independent evaluations (CSPI Chemical Cuisine, WHO JECFA).
- Review and publication: Entries are reviewed for accuracy before publication and flagged for update when regulatory changes occur.
Data Update Frequency
Our database is reviewed and updated on a quarterly basis to reflect the latest regulatory changes. Major regulatory actions (such as bans or new approvals) are incorporated as soon as they are officially announced. The most recent data review was completed in March 2026.
If you notice outdated information, please contact us so we can review and correct it promptly.
Limitations & Disclaimer
This website provides general information about food additives for educational purposes only. It should not be considered medical or nutritional advice.
Always consult qualified healthcare professionals, registered dietitians, or allergists for personalized dietary guidance. Individual sensitivities, allergies, and health conditions may affect how you react to specific additives.
Regulatory statuses for Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China are partly inferred from international regulatory patterns and publicly available data. Always verify with the relevant national authority in your jurisdiction for the most current information.
AdditiveChecker is an independent project and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency.
Last updated: March 2026