Ingredient

Shelf-life Extender

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Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add shelf-life extenders to prevent spoilage, maintain texture, and preserve the quality of …

What it is

Shelf-life extenders are ingredients that help keep food fresh for longer periods. They can be naturally occurring or synthesized. Their production methods vary widely depending on the specific ingredient used.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add shelf-life extenders to prevent spoilage, maintain texture, and preserve the quality of food products over time. They are commonly found in baked goods like cakes, pastries, and muffins, as well as prepared sandwiches and rolls.

Health notes

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally regards many common shelf-life extenders as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) or has approved them as food additives. International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated many of these ingredients. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some individuals may experience sensitivities. Research into the long-term effects of consuming various food additives is ongoing.

Allergen info

Shelf-life extenders themselves are not typically major allergens. However, the specific product they are used in may contain major allergens. Gluten is not inherently present in most shelf-life extenders, but may be found in the food product.

Products containing Shelf-life Extender

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Specialty Bakers, LLC Mini Cinnamon Rolls Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 348kcal 4.3Protein 15.2Fat 56.5Carbs Specialty Bakers, LLC Cream Cheese Croissants, Cream Cheese Croissants, Sweet Rolls, Muffins & Other Pastries 326kcal 7.0Protein 13.9Fat 44.2Carbs Quaker Bakery Brands, Inc. Wheat Pan Dinner Rolls Breads & Buns 279kcal 9.3Protein 4.7Fat 51.2Carbs Fresh Grill, LLC Roast Beef & Cheedar On Onion Roll With Wasabi Spread Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in sodium — 51% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 70% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 43% DV per serving 258kcal 13.6Protein 14.2Fat 19.1Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Pecan Danish Coffee Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 421kcal 5.3Protein 24.6Fat 42.1Carbs Fresh Grill, LLC Turkey & Cheddar Country Wedge, Turkey & Cheddar Prepared Subs & Sandwiches High in sodium — 66% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving High in added sugars — 20% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 20% DV per serving 226kcal 10.9Protein 9.9Fat 23.5Carbs Chicken & Maple Breakfast Waffle Sandwich, Chicken & Maple The Miso Brothers, Inc. Chicken & Maple Breakfast Waffle Sandwich, Chicken & Maple Frozen Breakfast Sandwiches, Biscuits & Meals High in sodium — 22% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving High in added sugars — 22% DV per serving 346kcal 12.0Protein 17.3Fat 36.8Carbs Fresh Grill, LLC Superpower Wedge Prepared Subs & Sandwiches High in sodium — 28% DV per serving 190kcal 5.2Protein 7.1Fat 28.6Carbs

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.