Sustains Freshness

Sustains Freshness is a marketing term, not a specific ingredient. It refers to a combination of ingredients, often including preservatives, humectants, and antioxidants, used to extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of food products. These ingredients work together to prevent spoilage, retain moisture, and protect against oxidation.

Manufacturers use 'Sustains Freshness' ingredients to keep products like baked goods, snacks, and confections from going stale, moldy, or rancid. They help maintain texture, flavor, and appearance over time, ensuring the product remains appealing to consumers. Common food types include cakes, cookies, dried fruits, and processed meats.

The health implications depend entirely on the specific ingredients used to 'sustain freshness.' Many common preservatives, such as sorbates and benzoates, have been evaluated by regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA. The FDA generally recognizes many such ingredients as safe (GRAS) when used as intended. International bodies like JECFA have also evaluated many preservatives, often setting acceptable daily intake levels. Evidence regarding the effects of these ingredients at typical consumption levels is generally reassuring, though some individuals may report sensitivities.