Decoding the Numbers on Your Food
Have you ever looked at an ingredient list and seen numbers like 129, 621, or 211? These are food additive codes used in Australia and New Zealand. While some are completely harmless (like 300, which is just Vitamin C), others have been linked to hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions, and other health concerns.
Here is your guide to understanding food additives in Australia and knowing which ones to leave on the supermarket shelf.
The Worst Offenders: Additives to Avoid
1. Artificial Colors (100-199)
Many artificial colors used in Australia have been banned in other countries or require warning labels in the EU due to their link to hyperactivity in children.
Watch out for:
- •102 (Tartrazine): A yellow dye often found in soft drinks, lollies, and chips. Linked to allergic reactions and hyperactivity.
- •129 (Allura Red AC): A red dye found in sweets and cereals.
- •133 (Brilliant Blue FCF): Found in ice cream, icing, and drinks.
The Swap: Look for products colored naturally with beetroot extract, spirulina, or turmeric.
2. Preservatives (200-299)
Preservatives extend shelf life but can cause issues for sensitive individuals.
Watch out for:
- •211 (Sodium Benzoate): Often found in soft drinks and fruit juices. When combined with Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), it can form benzene, a known carcinogen.
- •220 (Sulfur Dioxide): Commonly used in dried fruits and sausages. It can trigger asthma attacks in sensitive individuals.
- •282 (Sodium Propionate): Used in bread to prevent mold. Linked to behavioral changes and headaches.
The Swap: Choose freshly baked bread without 282, and opt for dried fruit that is naturally dried (it will look darker, not bright orange or yellow).
3. Flavor Enhancers (600-699)
These are used to make ultra-processed foods taste irresistible.
Watch out for:
- •621 (Monosodium Glutamate - MSG): Found in savory snacks, instant noodles, and seasoning mixes. While deemed safe by food authorities, many people report headaches, sweating, and nausea after consuming it.
- •627, 631, 635 (Ribonucleotides): Often used alongside MSG to amplify its effects. Can cause itchy rashes and worsen gout.
The Swap: Choose snacks flavored with real herbs and spices rather than yeast extracts or flavor enhancers.
4. Artificial Sweeteners (900-999)
Used to lower the calorie count of products, but they come with their own set of problems.
Watch out for:
- •951 (Aspartame): Found in diet drinks and sugar-free gums. Controversial due to potential links to headaches and altered gut microbiome.
- •955 (Sucralose): Found in many "protein" or "diet" snacks. Can negatively impact gut bacteria.
The Swap: If you need sweetness, opt for small amounts of natural sugars like honey or maple syrup, or look for products sweetened with Stevia (960) or Monk Fruit extract, which are generally considered safer.
How to Spot Hidden Additives Instantly
Memorizing hundreds of numbers is impossible. That's why the KnowYourFood app does the heavy lifting for you.
When you scan a barcode, the app instantly identifies every additive in the product and flags any that are of moderate or high concern. It takes the guesswork out of shopping and helps you protect your family from unnecessary chemicals.
Download KnowYourFood and start scanning your pantry today.