Why do people use e numbers?

E-numbers are a substance which is added to our food to improve its taste, appearance or to make it last longer. These are food additives. Foods which have been approved for use in Europe are given and E number.

E1... are colourings e.g E150-caramel colour

E2... are preservatives e.g E211 sodium benzoate

E3... are antioxidants e.g E300 vitamin C

E4... are emulsifiers, stabilizers and thickeners e.g Pectin

E5... are acidity regulators e.g Potassium carbonate

E6... are flavourings e.g monosodium glutamate