Understanding Food Labels
Not all additives to food are bad for us. Sometimes, manufacturers will add nutrients that are lost in processing. Ascorbic acid, also used as a preservative, is a form of vitamin C. Similarly, beta-carotene may be added as food coloring, or it may be added because the body converts it to vitamin A. Thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin (or niacinamide) are vitamins B1, B2 and B3, respectively. These added nutrients can be found in a variety of foods; you may see them in breads, rice or cereals, fruit juices, milk and salt, among others.
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Review Date:
September 22, 2014Citation:
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Last Updated:
September 22, 2014