Ingredient

A Natural Antimicrobial

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Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add natural antimicrobials to food products to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness. They …

What it is

A natural antimicrobial is a substance derived from living organisms, such as plants or microbes, that can inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. These compounds are often extracted using methods like solvent extraction or distillation. They are used to help preserve food and extend its shelf life.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add natural antimicrobials to food products to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness. They are often found in processed meats, dairy products, baked goods, and sauces. Their use helps reduce the risk of foodborne illness by inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Health notes

Natural antimicrobials are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended in food. Research is ongoing to understand their full range of health effects. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated some natural antimicrobials, but specific intake limits are not always established. Evidence regarding their health benefits or risks at typical consumption levels is still developing.

Allergen info

Depending on the specific source, some natural antimicrobials may be derived from major allergens. For example, some may be extracted from soy or wheat. It is important to check product labels for specific allergen information.

Products containing A Natural Antimicrobial

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Scalloped Potatoes Made With Fresh Potatoes, Real Butter & White Cheddar Cheese, Scalloped Potatoes Reser's Fine Foods, Inc. Scalloped Potatoes Made With Fresh Potatoes, Real Butter & White Cheddar Cheese, Scalloped Potatoes Other Deli High in sodium — 20% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 136kcal 5Protein 7.1Fat 12.9Carbs Reser's Fine Foods, Inc. Creamy Cauliflower, Creamy Other Deli 73kcal 2.7Protein 4.5Fat 6.4Carbs Weis Markets, Inc. Scalloped Potatoes Other Deli High in sodium — 22% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 129kcal 4.3Protein 5.7Fat 15Carbs Homestyle A Classic Bread Stuffing With Celery, Onions And Seasonings Stuffing, Homestyle Safeway, Inc. Homestyle A Classic Bread Stuffing With Celery, Onions And Seasonings Stuffing, Homestyle Other Deli High in sodium — 29% DV per serving 122kcal 4.3Protein 3.0Fat 19.1Carbs Safeway, Inc. Homestyle Savory Gravy In A Traditional Holiday Dinner Recipe Gravy, Homestyle Gravy Mix 48kcal 1.6Protein 3.2Fat 4.8Carbs Safeway, Inc. Homestyle A Classic Bread Stuffing With Celery, Onions And Seasonings Stuffing, Homestyle Stuffing High in sodium — 29% DV per serving 122kcal 4.3Protein 3.0Fat 19.1Carbs White Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese, White Cheddar Reser's Fine Foods, Inc. White Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese, White Cheddar Pasta Dinners High in sodium — 77% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving 135kcal 6.5Protein 7.1Fat 12.1Carbs Open Season, LLC Open Season, Sweet Potato Butter Jam, Jelly & Fruit Spreads 156kcal 0Protein 0Fat 37.5Carbs Safeway, Inc. Homestyle Savory Gravy In A Traditional Holiday Dinner Recipe Gravy, Homestyle Gravy Mix 48kcal 1.6Protein 3.2Fat 4.8Carbs Creamy Homestyle Macaroni & Cheese, Creamy Homestyle Publix Super Markets, Inc. Creamy Homestyle Macaroni & Cheese, Creamy Homestyle Pasta Dinners High in sodium — 41% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving 136kcal 6.4Protein 6.8Fat 12.7Carbs Safeway, Inc. Sweet Potatoes With Milk, Brown Sugar And Butter Blended With Cinnamon And Nutmeg Mashed Potatoes, Sweet Other Deli 98kcal 1.6Protein 2.0Fat 18.9Carbs Safeway, Inc. Cornbread Seasonal Favorites Traditional Stuffing With Celery, Onions And Seasonings, Cornbread Stuffing High in sodium — 30% DV per serving 139kcal 4.3Protein 3.5Fat 22.6Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.