Preservative

Preservatives are substances or chemicals that are added to products such as foods, pharmaceuticals, paints, biological samples, wood, and many other products to prevent decomposition by microbial growth or by undesirable chemical changes.

History

The concept of food preservation has been around since ancient times. Early methods of preservation included salting, pickling, smoking, and drying. The discovery of microorganisms and their role in food spoilage led to the development of modern preservatives.

Types of Preservatives

Preservatives can be classified into two broad types: natural and synthetic.

Natural Preservatives

Natural preservatives are substances found naturally in various foods and beverages. These include salt, sugar, vinegar, and citric acid. They work by creating an environment that is inhospitable to microbial life.

Synthetic Preservatives

Synthetic preservatives are man-made, or synthetic, chemicals that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms. These include sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, and sodium nitrite.

Uses

Preservatives are used in a wide variety of products and industries. In the food industry, they are used to extend the shelf life of foods and prevent spoilage. In the pharmaceutical industry, they are used to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in medicines. In the cosmetics industry, they are used to prevent the growth of microorganisms in products.

Safety and Regulation

The safety and use of preservatives are regulated by various agencies worldwide, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in the European Union. These agencies set limits on the types and amounts of preservatives that can be used in different products.

See Also

• Food Additives
• Antioxidants
• Food Safety