Food Additive
Definition
A substance added to food to perform a technological function such as preserving, colouring, flavouring, or improving texture. Food additives must be declared on labels using their class name and number or specific name.
Regulatory Source
- Standard 1.3.1— Food additives — specifies which additives are permitted in which foods and at what maximum permitted levels
- Standard 1.2.4— Statement of ingredients — additive class names and numbers must be declared in the ingredient list
Last verified against current standards: April 2026
Regulatory authority: Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ)
Related Terms
Food Standards Code
The Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code — the collection of standards governing food composition, labelling, safety, and production maintained by FSANZ.
FSANZ
Food Standards Australia New Zealand — the regulatory body that develops and maintains the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code governing food labelling, safety, and composition.
Ingredient List
A mandatory component of food labels listing all ingredients in descending order of weight, using prescribed names and identifying allergens and food additives.