
Food Additives I-L
Isopropyl
Citrate - The staling of margarines and vegetable oils
is retarded by this antioxidant. It is generally recognized as safe by the FDA.
Karaya
Gum - This additive come from the sap of an East
Indian tree. It is gathered, dried, and then powdered. When water is added it
becomes a soft gel, which is the property that food processors use it for. It is
used as a binder in baked goods, candies, toppings, ice cream, and sherbets. It
also makes a good denture adhesive. Within FDA guidelines it is considered safe.
Kola
Nut Extract - This additive was once used in the
treatment of Epilepsy. It comes from the seeds of the Kola tree. It contains
caffeine and kolanin, which is a heart stimulant. Commercial uses include
caramels, chocolates, ice creams, icings, baked goods, and soft drinks. In West
Africa, Jamaica, Brazil, and India, the natives chew the kola nuts for energy
and to delay hunger. It is considered safe if used within guidelines. (FDA)
Lactylic
Stearate - This
additive is used in the cosmetic industry as well as the food industry. It is
the salt of a fatty acid that is naturally found in vegetable oils and in animal
fat. Bakers use this as a dough conditioner and to keep their goods moist.
Lauric
Acid - This is a mild irritant, but it is still
considered safe when used within FDA guidelines. It is found in butter, coconut
oil, palm oil, and the spice bush. It is a highly saturated fatty acid. In
vegetable shortenings it is used as a lubricant and a defoaming agent. It is also used in candies, ice cream baked goods,
assorted drink, gelatin, and pudding mixes.
L-Cysteine
- An amino acid used to prevent oxidation in
commercial yeast breads. It is considered safe within limits by the FDA, but is
on a "further study" list.
Limonene
- Male lab rats have developed kidney tumors from this
compound. It is found in orange zest and oil of orange. It hasn't caused the
tumors in female rats or mice of either sex and is probably not of any
consequence to people. It is a flavoring used widely by the food industry. Safe
within FDA guidelines.
Low-Methoxyl
Pectin - In the absence of sugar this pectin will gel.
This makes it a good choice for diet jams and jellies. It is generally
recognized as safe.