Food Preservatives: What You Should Know as a Manufacturer

In the world of making food, you need to keep food safe to eat and tasty for a long time.

This is where food preservatives come in. Understanding and using preservatives can make a significant difference in the success of your products.

Let’s talk about what they are, the types you can use, and what food manufacturers in Malaysia need to know.

---

Why are Food Preservatives Important?

What are food preservatives? They are compounds that inhibit the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria, yeast, and molds.

They help in slowing down the deterioration of food caused by certain enzymes.

So, you can extend the shelf life of various products while maintaining flavor, texture, and nutritional value.

Types of Food Preservatives

Antimicrobial Agents

These preservatives prevent the growth of microorganisms that cause spoilage and foodborne illnesses.

Examples: sodium benzoate, sorbic acid, potassium sorbate, and sodium nitrite.

However, the usage of these should be carefully regulated to ensure they are within permissible limits to avoid health risks.

Antioxidants

Oxidation is a major cause of food spoilage, leading to rancidity and color changes.

Examples: sulphur dioxide, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), tocopherols (vitamin E), and BHA/BHT (butylated hydroxyanisole/butylated hydroxytoluene)

They can mitigate these effects and prolong the freshness of products containing fats and oils.

Chelating Agents

These compounds help preserve color, flavor, and texture by binding to metal ions that catalyze oxidation.

Example: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)

EDTA is a common chelating agent used to maintain the quality of canned fruits and vegetables.

Enzyme Inhibitors

Enzymes are natural compounds that can lead to the degradation of food.

Examples: citric acid and sodium metabisulfite

They can slow down this process and maintain the product’s quality.

Tips for Food Manufacturers Using Food Preservatives

1. Stay updated on the regulations relating to food additives.
2. Make sure to stay within the permitted limit in your product.
3. Choose preservatives that work well in the climate and storage conditions.
4. Use natural preservatives to avoid confusing consumers.
5. Test your food regularly to make sure the preservatives work well.

---

Use Food Preservatives in Your Food Wisely

Food preservatives are crucial for Malaysian food makers since they help keep products safe, tasty, and lasting longer.

Manufacturers can make safe and presentable products by following rules, adapting to the climate, and meeting consumer demands.

Need more food business consultation or want to start a project? We can help you with compliant labeling solutions and packaging design. 

Next read: Benefits of Retort Pouch Packaging for Food Manufacturers

---

DISCLAIMER

This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Although we strive to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for any kind of professional advice, and you should not rely solely on this information. Please opt for a one-to-one consultation with us or a relevant professional for your specific concerns regarding food business solutions in Malaysia before making any decisions.