Gluten-free Ingredients: Water

Water is a clear, odorless, and tasteless liquid essential for life. It is the main ingredient in many foods and beverages and is naturally found in rivers, lakes, and oceans. For food production, water is purified and treated to meet safety standards.

Water is used in packaged foods primarily as a solvent and base ingredient. It helps to dissolve other ingredients, control texture, and maintain moisture. Water is found in a wide variety of processed foods, including sauces, soups, baked goods, and beverages.

Water is essential for human health and is not considered an additive requiring FDA approval. Adequate water intake is crucial for bodily functions. While generally safe, excessive consumption of plain water can lead to hyponatremia, a rare condition where sodium levels in the blood become dangerously low. Regulatory bodies like the WHO have established guidelines for safe drinking water quality.