Why are additives put into food?

Additives are put into food to make it taste better, look better and last longer. Sometimes, substances are merely applied topically. For example, ethylene gas is used to change the color of green Oranges to orange, and carbon monoxide is used to restore or preserve cut meat's bright red color.

Even at home, we put additives into our food, for the same reasons. Salt, sugar and vinegar can be used to help preserve food.