Here is a mind map summarizing the main purposes of using food additives:
Food Additives
Purposes
Preservation
- Prevent spoilage by microbes (e.g. sodium benzoate)
- Slow lipid oxidation (e.g. BHA, BHT)
Texture and Structure
- Improve texture (e.g. thickening agents)
- Maintain structure (e.g. gums)
Color and Appearance
- Enhance color (e.g. carotenoids, anthocyanins)
- Improve appearance (e.g. titanium dioxide)
Flavor
- Enhance existing flavors (e.g. MSG)