Real Ingredients From Nature.
A Standard From Us.

Synthetic antioxidant

Synthetic antioxidant similar to BHA; limited safety data.

Supplement compound

A serotonin-precursor supplement whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Sap-derived fiber from acacia trees

Natural tree-sap fiber with long food use; well-tolerated and acts as a prebiotic, may cause mild gas at high doses.

Artificial sweetener

Linked to metabolic disorders and cardiovascular risk.

Synthetic flavor

Made from petroleum-derived chemicals.

Flour bleaching agent; industrial oxidizer

Generates carcinogenic free radicals; banned in EU, UK, China.

Chemically modified starch (adipic acid + acetic anhydride); industrial modification

Contains heavy metal contaminants (arsenic, lead, mercury); no FDA limits.

Chemically modified starch (phosphorous oxychloride + acetic anhydride); industrial modification

Contains heavy metal contaminants (arsenic, lead, mercury); no FDA limits.

Supplement compound

Used as a detox supplement, but can absorbs medications and nutrients and block drug effectiveness.

Synthetic buffering agent and flavor enhancer

Industrial nylon chemical that rarely occurs in nature; repurposed as food additive.

Artificial sweetener

Linked to metabolic disorders and cardiovascular risk.

Sweetener from the agave plant

Added sugar; regularly high intake is linked to inflammation. Use in moderation.

Novel and processed ingredients derived from industrially fermented microalgae

Considered a novel food; EU requires authorization first.

Red plant-derived colorant

A red plant dye that contains natural compounds (pyrrolizidine alkaloids) that can damage the liver.

Novel sweetener that can be industrially derived

Novel sweetener with dose-dependent GI side effects; mostly industrially produced.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; carries a mandatory EU warning label.

A form of vitamin E, an antioxidant

Synthetic vitamin additive used to fortify foods; not a vitamin delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Proprietary ingredient blend; could include canthaxanthin

Proprietary formula

Metal colorant; neurotoxicity concerns

Neurotoxic in animal studies and accumulates in the body; children can exceed EFSA's safe weekly limit.

Chemically modified starch + aluminum; anti-caking agent, emulsifier, stabilizer

Contains aluminum and heavy metal contaminants; no FDA limits.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Ammonia-processed caramel color; produces 4-MEI (potential carcinogen)

Ammonia-process caramel; may contain carcinogenic 4-MEI.

Aluminum-based salt; firming/leavening agent; neurotoxicity concerns

Aluminum-based; neurotoxic in animal studies and accumulates in the body.

Industrial chemical; dough conditioner/yeast food; harsh on kidneys

Increases kidney stress; may cause renal damage.

Ammonia solution; industrial pH adjuster; "pink slime" processing

Strong industrial base used in food processing.

Complex phosphate

Most children already exceed EFSA's safe daily limit for phosphate additives; excess phosphate raises cardiovascular and kidney risk

Chemical dough conditioner

A synthetic industrial additive used as a dough conditioner; a processing aid, not a whole-food ingredient.

Blue-green algae supplement; microcystin contamination risk (hepatotoxic); supplement territory

Dose-sensitive; may interact with medications at uncontrolled food doses.

Synthetic colorant

Synthetic colorant with insufficient long-term safety data.

Contains amygdalin (cyanide precursor); toxicity risk

Releases cyanide during digestion.

Contains amygdalin (cyanide precursor); toxicity risk

Releases cyanide during digestion.

Color additive; likely synthetic

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Artificial flavor

Synthesized from petroleum or industrial chemical feedstocks, not from natural food sources. A marker of ultra-processed food.

Vague label indicating a synthetic ingredient

A synthetic ingredient and a marker of ultra-processed food.

Artificial preservative

A synthetic preservative and a marker of ultra-processed food.

Typically contain artificial colors

Linked to hyperactivity in children

Artificial sweetener

Linked to metabolic disorders and cardiovascular risk.

Contains artificial colors/flavors

Contains synthetic colors or flavors; a marker of ultra-processed food.

Synthetic form of vitamin C

Synthetic vitamin additive used to fortify foods; not a vitamin delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Artificial sweetener

Classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) by the WHO's cancer agency in 2023.

Isolated red-orange pigment; mostly synthetic; used to artificially color farm-raised salmon

Over 95% of astaxanthin on the market is synthetic and petroleum-derived; an isolated additive, not a whole food.

Dose-sensitive medicinal herb

Medicinal botanical in supplement territory; can be dose-sensitive and vary by individual.

Dose-sensitive medicinal herb

Medicinal botanical in supplement territory; can be dose-sensitive and vary by individual.

Proprietary blend containing banned astragalus; fails transparency

Medicinal botanical in supplement territory; can be dose-sensitive and vary by individual.

Yeast extract variant; MSG-adjacent flavor enhancer; concentrated free glutamates

Hidden source of free glutamates (functions like MSG).

Class of synthetic colorants; linked to hyperactivity in children; EU requires warning labels

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dough conditioner; also an industrial foaming agent

A synthetic dough conditioner also used to make foamed plastics and rubber; banned as a food additive in the EU and Australia but still permitted in the US.

Supplement compound

Medicinal botanical in supplement territory; can be dose-sensitive and vary by individual; can have drug interactions

Ambiguous oil; cannot verify type; fails transparency

Unspecified oil; could be industrial seed oil.

Mineral clay binder; detox supplement

A swelling clay used as a binder in detox supplements. Its binding action can reduce absorption of nutrients and medications taken with it; dose sensitive.

Preservative class (E210-E213); linked to hyperactivity

Can form benzene (carcinogen) with vitamin C.

Synthetic preservative

Can form benzene (carcinogen) with vitamin C.

Synthetic flavoring agent

Synthetic flavoring agent linked to cancer.

Flour bleaching agent

Chemical bleaching banned in the EU and many countries.

Flavor carrier and solvent

An added solvent that carries flavorings. It occurs naturally in fruits and nuts, but the added form is industrially made from petroleum-derived toluene.

Synthetic fungicide applied to citrus fruit skins

Fungicide withdrawn in EU over safety and endocrine concerns.

Contains activated charcoal

Can have medicinal benefits, but varies by dose and individual. Absorbs medications and nutrients; can block drug effectiveness.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Contains bleached flour: chemical bleaching

Chemical bleaching banned in the EU and many countries.

Standalone "bleached"; implies chemical bleaching process

Chemical bleaching agents banned in the EU due to health concerns

Chemically treated tallow; industrial processing

Chemical bleaching agents banned in the EU due to health concerns

Industrially processed oil-based spread

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Not a real fruit; inherently implies artificial coloring (FD&C Blue No. 1)

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Toxic preservative; reproductive toxin; banned in most countries for food use

Reproductive toxin; banned in most countries.

Medicinal herb/supplement compound

Dose-sensitive; may interact with medications at uncontrolled food doses.

Branded sweetener; fails transparency

Linked to metabolic disorders and cardiovascular risk.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Potassium bromate treatment

Possible carcinogen; banned in the EU, UK, Canada, and many other countries.

Chemically or industrially processed oil

FDA revoked approval in 2024; thyroid and heart damage.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Sweetener made from brown rice

Added sugar; regularly high intake is linked to inflammation. Use in moderation.

Climbing vine used in traditional herbal medicine

Medicinal plant whose raw root and berries are toxic; dose-sensitive and in supplement territory.

Heat-treated alum that contribute to dietary aluminum intake

Aluminum-based; neurotoxic in animal studies and accumulates in the body.

Solvent for flavorings

An industrially made solvent used to carry flavorings. A processing agent, not a whole-food ingredient.

Unspecified oil + unqualified flavoring; fails transparency

Could contain inductrially processed oils that have DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Margarine equivalent; typically contains industrially processed oils

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Synthetic antioxidant

Possible human carcinogen and hormone disruptor.

Synthetic antioxidant

BHT linked to organ toxicity

Solvent for flavorings

An industrially made solvent used to carry flavorings. A processing agent, not a whole-food ingredient.

Extended-release / synthetic caffeine delivery form

An engineered caffeine-delivery form designed for supplements and functional products, not a whole food.

Mineral supporting bones and teeth

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Flour improver; oxidizer; carcinogenicity concerns; banned in many countries

Possible carcinogen; banned in the EU, UK, Canada, and many other countries.

Calcium fortification compound

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

MSG-family flavor enhancer; glutamate salt

An isolated glutamate flavor enhancer. EFSA set a safe daily limit that all population groups currently exceed, and some groups exceed levels linked to effects like headache, raised blood pressure, and increased insulin.

Synthetic chelating agent; sequesters metals; antioxidant and preservative

Strips essential minerals from the body.

Synthetic preservative

Raises blood sugar, triggers insulin resistance, linked to gut microbiome changes

Synthetic preservative

Linked to reproductive and developmental delays in animals at mid to high intake; reduced ADI limit in the EU

Synthetic emulsifier

A synthetic emulsifier used in flavored fermented milk products and baked goods

Synthetic umami enhancer; purine nucleotide

A synthetic umami enhancer that amplifies the savory effect of glutamate (MSG), used almost exclusively alongside it in ultra-processed food. As a purine, it raises uric acid; relevant for people prone to gout. An isolated flavor enhancer, not a whole food.

Sugar from sugarcane

Added sugar; regularly high intake is linked to inflammation. Use in moderation.

Chemically or industrially processed oil

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Synthetic colorant

Deposits crystals in the retina; one of the strictest safe-intake limits of any colorant.

Synthetic fat substitute/emulsifier

Synthetic structured fat substitute; no traditional equivalent.

Likely artificial or unspecified color

Some types produce 4-MEI, a possible carcinogen.

Synthetic nitrogen compound; industrial additive

Synthetic industrial additive, not a whole food.

Used to artificially preserve red color in meat; deceptive to consumers

Keeps spoiled meat looking fresh; banned in EU.

Chemically modified cellulose

Human trial showed gut bacteria damage after just 11 days.

Insect-derived red colorant (cochineal); allergenic

Can cause severe allergic reactions.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; carries a mandatory EU warning label.

Seaweed-derived thickener

Triggers gut inflammation; EFSA cut safe intake.

Not approved in food

Not FDA-approved for food; drug interactions.

Modified cellulose

Human trial showed gut bacteria damage after just 11 days.

Umbrella term for synthetic FD&C dyes; all banned

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Dose-sensitive medicinal mushroom

Medicinal mushroom in supplement territory; can be dose-sensitive and vary by individual.

Activated carbon; interferes with nutrient/medication absorption

Absorbs medications and nutrients indiscriminately.

Chemically modified starch

Contains heavy metal contaminants (arsenic, lead, mercury); no FDA limits.

Nitrate preservative; carcinogenic nitrosamine precursor

Forms cancer-causing nitrosamines

Vitamin D3, supports bone and immune health

Synthetic vitamin additive used to fortify foods; not a vitamin delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Isolated supplement compound

A nootropic supplement whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Synthetic dye

Synthetic dyes are linked to hyperactivity in children.

Unspecified coating agent; fails transparency

Unidentified coating; not enough info to allow.

Industrial fat substitute; not real cocoa butter

Interesterified fat; worsens blood lipid ratios in trials.

Sugar from coconut palm sap

Added sugar; regularly high intake is linked to inflammation. Use in moderation.

Sunflower oil pressed at low heat without solvents

Permitted with caution in mechanically-pressed, high-oleic, or organic forms.

Silver particles suspended in liquid

In supplement territory and dose-sensitive; can be beneficial for some individuals; excess intake can cause permanent skin discoloration (argyria).

Dose-sensitive medicinal mushroom

Medicinal mushroom in supplement territory; can be dose-sensitive and vary by individual.

Chemically altered starch derivative

Chemical alteration is a UPF marker

Chemically or industrially processed oil

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Produced by industrial enzymatic hydrolysis of corn starch; UPF marker

Linked to belly fat and metabolic dysfunction.

Produced by industrial enzymatic hydrolysis of corn starch; UPF marker

Linked to belly fat and metabolic dysfunction.

Chemically or industrially processed oil

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Flavoring compound; toxic at high doses

Hepatotoxic (liver-damaging) at dietary exposure levels.

Isolated supplement compounds

Performance supplements whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Powder made from dried crickets or insects

Novel food; allergy risk for shellfish-sensitive people.

Artificial sweetener

Potential link to bladder cancer in rats; banned in the US since 1969.

Stabilizer

Linked to kidney damage, inflammation, and fibrosis in mice.

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Isolated amino acids; dose sensitive; benefits vary by individual; may have drug interactions

Isolated supplement compound

A joint-support supplement whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Isolated supplement compound

A supplement-category isolate whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Isolated supplement compound

A supplement-category sugar whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Rare sugar; industrially made from lactose

An industrially manufactured rare sugar, not a whole-food sweetener.

Sweetener made from ground dried dates

Added sugar; regularly high intake is linked to inflammation. Use in moderation.

Chemically modified emulsifier

Disrupts gut bacteria and promotes inflammation.

Deodorized by chemical refining

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Chemically altered starch derivative

Chemical alteration is a UPF marker

Simple sugar (glucose) from starch

Added sugar; regularly high intake is linked to inflammation. Use in moderation.

Synthetic butter flavoring

A synthetic butter flavoring; linked to severe lung illness when breathed in high amounts; linked to DNA damage

Fossilized silica-rich algae; supplement

A fossilized-silica mineral used as a supplement, including in traditional detox and antiparasitic remedies. Dose sensitive and is bioindividual. Can cause irritation to skin, eyes, lungs if inhaled.

Calcium fortification compound

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Synthetic silicone anti-foaming agent

A synthetic silicone polymer used to stop foaming in frying oils and processed foods. An industrial processing additive, not a whole food.

Synthetic surfactant; laxative at dose

A synthetic surfactant used as a wetting and emulsifying agent in foods like powdered drink mixes, processed cheese, and salad dressings. It is also the active ingredient in stool-softener laxatives.

Synthetic umami enhancer; purine nucleotide

A synthetic umami enhancer that amplifies the savory effect of glutamate (MSG), used almost exclusively alongside it in ultra-processed food. As a purine, it raises uric acid; relevant for people prone to gout. An isolated flavor enhancer, not a whole food.

Synthetic umami enhancer; purine nucleotide

A synthetic umami enhancer that amplifies the savory effect of glutamate (MSG), used almost exclusively alongside it in ultra-processed food. As a purine, it raises uric acid; relevant for people prone to gout. An isolated flavor enhancer, not a whole food.

Synthetic umami enhancer; purine nucleotide

A synthetic umami enhancer that amplifies the savory effect of glutamate (MSG), used almost exclusively alongside it in ultra-processed food. As a purine, it raises uric acid; relevant for people prone to gout. An isolated flavor enhancer, not a whole food.

unspecified dough conditioner; fails transparency

Unidentified dough conditioner; not enough info to allow

Synthetic chelator

Strips essential minerals from the body.

Isolated compound from green tea

Concentrated green-tea isolate linked to liver injury at supplement doses.

Adaptogenic herb (Siberian ginseng); dose-sensitive; drug interactions

Adaptogenic herb in supplement territory; can be dose-sensitive and vary by individual.

Adaptogenic herb (Siberian ginseng); dose-sensitive; drug interactions

Adaptogenic herb in supplement territory; can be dose-sensitive and vary by individual.

Unspecified emulsifier; fails transparency

Unidentified ingredient; not enough info to allow

Unspecified emulsifying salts; typically phosphates in processed cheese; fails transparency

Unidentified ingredient; not enough info to allow

Refined durum wheat with synthetic nutrients added back

Refined grain with synthetic nutrients added back; lacks the fiber and whole-grain benefits of the original.

Refined flour with synthetic nutrients added back

Refined grain with synthetic nutrients added back; lacks the fiber and whole-grain benefits of the original.

Pasta made from refined flour with synthetic nutrients added back

Refined grain with synthetic nutrients added back; lacks the fiber and whole-grain benefits of the original.

Refined unbleached flour with synthetic nutrients added back

Refined grain with synthetic nutrients added back; lacks the fiber and whole-grain benefits of the original.

Refined unbleached flour with synthetic nutrients added back

Refined grain with synthetic nutrients added back; lacks the fiber and whole-grain benefits of the original.

Refined wheat flour with synthetic nutrients added back

Refined grain with synthetic nutrients added back; lacks the fiber and whole-grain benefits of the original.

Enzyme-concentrated flavor; industrial processing

A concentrated flavor made by treating cheese with enzymes to intensify taste 10-20 times in just days, replacing months of natural aging. An industrial flavor shortcut, not a whole food.

Stimulant; dose-sensitive

Cardiovascular stimulant the FDA banned from supplements over heart attack, stroke, and death risk.

Medicinal herb; dose sensitive

Medicinal botanical in supplement territory; can be dose-sensitive and vary by individual.

Synthetically derived antioxidant

Looks like vitamin C but provides no nutrition; processed meat marker.

Fermentation-produced sugar alcohol; cardiovascular risk

Linked to increased blood clotting and higher risk of heart attack and stroke.

Synthetic non-digestible fat substitute

A synthetic fat substitute engineered to resist digestion. Studies show it lowers absorption of beta-carotene and vitamin K, and causes dose-dependent digestive effects like oily stools. An industrial fat replacer, not a whole food.

Industrial emulsifier

Disrupts gut bacteria and promotes inflammation.

Chemically modified emulsifier. Includes all variations (acetic acid, acetylated, citric acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, etc)

Disrupts gut bacteria and promotes inflammation.

Pesticide-as-preservative

Originally a pesticide; EU suspended over cancer risk.

Solvent used to decaffeinate coffee and tea

A versatile industrial solvent used in coatings, adhesives, and nail products, and to strip caffeine from coffee and tea. Water-based methods (Swiss Water, CO2) decaffeinate without it.

Synthetic flavoring

Synthetic flavoring

Toxic industrial chemical

Industrial chemical used in food packaging, toxic to kidneys, heart, and nervous system

Sterilization gas; carcinogen (IARC Group 1); banned as food additive

Group 1 human carcinogen (highest risk category).

Paraben preservative; endocrine disruptor

Mimics estrogen; associated with hormone disruption and changes in fertility

Synthetic flavoring agent

Synthetic flavoring agent

Isolated sweetener compound

Fermentation with engineered yeast; a purified isolate, not the stevia plant.

Sunflower oil pressed mechanically without solvents

Permitted with caution in mechanically-pressed, high-oleic, or organic forms.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; carries a mandatory EU warning label.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; carries a mandatory EU warning label.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; carries a mandatory EU warning label.

Iron fortification compound

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Iron fortification compound

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Iron fortification compound

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Iron fortification compound

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Iron fortification compound

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Iron fortification compound

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Heavily processed coffee creamer product

Typically contains oils, emulsifiers, additives

Fattened duck or goose liver

Produced by force-feeding ducks or geese to enlarge the liver.

Synthetic form of vitamin B9

Synthetic vitamin additive used to fortify foods; not a vitamin delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Refined palm kernel oil derivative

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Cosmetic term; not a food ingredient

An undefined scent blend used in cosmetics and household products, not a food ingredient. Has no place on a food label.

Industrial sugar derivative

Made by multi-step enzyme treatment of corn starch.

Chemically hardened fats

Highly processed fats for shelf stability, preservation

Industrially made ingredient that adds tartness

An industrially manufactured acid used to add tartness; an isolated additive, not a whole-food ingredient.

Brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter; neuroactive compound

A neuroactive supplement whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Dose-sensitive medicinal herbs

Linked to multiple cases of acute liver injury.

Plant-derived colorant; incomplete safety evaluation

A color extracted from gardenia fruit. Its intake was classified without full toxicological evaluation. The precursor of gardenia blue (genipin) showed genotoxic potential in lab tests.

Unspecified gel color; could be artificial; fails transparency

Linked to hyperactivity in children

Fermentation-derived thickener

Fermentation-derived thickener; may cause digestive effects in large amounts.

Dose-sensitive herb; supplement

Among the herbal supplements most linked to serious drug interactions.

Produced by industrial enzymatic hydrolysis of starch; UPF marker

Made by industrial enzyme treatment of corn, wheat, or potato starch.

Produced by industrial enzymatic hydrolysis of starch; UPF marker

Made by industrial enzyme treatment of corn, wheat, or potato starch.

Industrial sugar derivative

Made by multi-step enzyme treatment of starch. Synonymous with high fructose corn syrup.

Industrial sugar derivative

Made by multi-step enzyme treatment of corn starch.

Free glutamate / MSG-family flavor enhancer

An isolated glutamate flavor enhancer. EFSA set a safe daily limit that all population groups currently exceed, and some groups exceed levels linked to effects like headache, raised blood pressure, and increased insulin.

Mono/diglyceride family member

Disrupts gut bacteria and promotes inflammation.

Chemically derived emulsifier from pine

Harvested rosin from pine undergoes a complex chemical reaction with glycerin to become water soluble

Mono/diglyceride family member

Disrupts gut bacteria and promotes inflammation.

Isolated amino-acid additive; flavor enhancer / sweetener

A synthetic amino acid used as a flavor enhancer and mild sweetener. An isolated flavor additive, not a whole food.

Synthetic umami enhancer; purine nucleotide

A synthetic umami enhancer that amplifies the savory effect of glutamate (MSG), used almost exclusively alongside it in ultra-processed food. As a purine, it raises uric acid; relevant for people prone to gout. An isolated flavor enhancer, not a whole food.

Dose-sensitive supplement

Medicinal botanical in supplement territory; can be dose-sensitive and vary by individual.

Chemically or industrially processed oil

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Synthetic dye

A synthetic petroleum-derived dye; an isolated additive, not found in whole foods.

Synthetic umami enhancer; purine nucleotide

A synthetic umami enhancer that amplifies the savory effect of glutamate (MSG), used almost exclusively alongside it in ultra-processed food. As a purine, it raises uric acid; relevant for people prone to gout. An isolated flavor enhancer, not a whole food.

Thickener from the guar bean

Bean-derived thickener; can cause bloating or digestive discomfort in large doses.

Chemically hardened fats

Highly processed fats for shelf stability, preservation

Black salt containing activated charcoal; absorbs medications

Absorbs medications and nutrients; can block drug effectiveness.

Chinese medicinal herb; documented hepatotoxicity

Medicinal herb; dose sensitive; linked to cases of liver toxicity

Synthetic non-digestible fat substitute (olestra family)

The FDA found that Olestra inhibits absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and can cause abdominal cramping and loose stools.

Formaldehyde-releasing preservative; carcinogen precursor

Releases formaldehyde (carcinogen) in stomach.

Industrial sugar derivative

Linked to belly fat and metabolic dysfunction.

Industrial sugar derivative

Made by industrial enzyme treatment of corn starch.

Seed oil variant; still RBD-processed

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Sunflower oil that is higher in monounsaturated fat; not as prone to harmful oxidation effects

Permitted with caution in mechanically-pressed, high-oleic, or organic forms. Still may be chemically extracted.

Unidentifiable; likely seed oil

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

"Highly refined" = likely RBD process; industrial chemical refining

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Seed oil + industrial refining

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Seaweed with high inorganic arsenic; subject to consumer advisories

A seaweed that accumulates high levels of inorganic arsenic, a known human carcinogen; food safety agencies advise against eating it.

Natural sweetener made by bees

Added sugar; regularly high intake is linked to inflammation. Use in moderation.

Industrially hydrogenated mix of sugar alcohols

Industrially processed low calorie mix of sugar alcohols; laxative effecs and GI distress when consumed in high amounts

MSG-adjacent; produces free glutamate

Hidden source of free glutamates (functions like MSG).

MSG-adjacent; produces free glutamate

Hidden source of free glutamates (functions like MSG).

Garcinia cambogia extract; weight-loss supplement; hepatotoxicity reports

Weight-loss compound linked to cases of acute liver injury.

Chemically modified cellulose

Human trial showed gut bacteria damage after just 11 days.

Chemically modified starch

Contains heavy metal contaminants (arsenic, lead, mercury); no FDA limits.

Chemically modified cellulose

Human trial showed gut bacteria damage after just 11 days.

Synthetic post-harvest fungicide

A synthetic fungicide applied to produce after harvest; classified in the EU as suspected of causing cancer.

Imitation ingredient; not real food

Engineered substitute typically with synthetic additives.

Imitation product: industrial substitute for real food

Engineered substitute typically with synthetic additives.

Synthetic umami enhancer; purine nucleotide

A synthetic umami enhancer that amplifies the savory effect of glutamate (MSG), used almost exclusively alongside it in ultra-processed food. As a purine, it raises uric acid; relevant for people prone to gout. An isolated flavor enhancer, not a whole food.

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Isolated amino acids; dose sensitive; benefits vary by individual; may have drug interactions

Synthetic umami enhancer; purine nucleotide

A synthetic umami enhancer that amplifies the savory effect of glutamate (MSG), used almost exclusively alongside it in ultra-processed food. As a purine, it raises uric acid; relevant for people prone to gout. An isolated flavor enhancer, not a whole food.

Industrial fat restructuring

Industrial modified fats linked to heart disease.

Liquid sugar split into glucose and fructose

Added sugar; regularly high intake is linked to inflammation. Use in moderation.

Industrial enzyme

An enzyme that liquefies firm candy centers from the inside after packaging. An industrial processing enzyme, not a whole food.

Synthetic iron oxide colorant; not nutritional iron

Contains nanoparticles; EFSA found insufficient safety data.

Synthetic mineral colorant

Contains nanoparticles; EFSA found insufficient safety data.

Ionizing radiation treatment; not a minimal process

Food treated with ionizing radiation to kill microbes and pests. Irradiating fats produces 2-alkylcyclobutanones, compounds formed only by this process, whose long-term effects remain debated.

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Isolated amino acids; dose sensitive; benefits vary by individual; may have drug interactions

Industrially extracted/synthesized flavour compound

Industrially extracted or synthesized, not a whole food; a marker of ultra-processed food.

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Isolated amino acids; dose sensitive; benefits vary by individual; may have drug interactions

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Isolated amino acids; dose sensitive; benefits vary by individual; may have drug interactions

Sugar alcohol; industrial processing

Causes laxative effects and GI distress when consumed in high amounts

Industrial sugar derivative

Industrially produced oligosaccharide; digestive side effects.

Sap-derived thickener from the karaya tree

Natural tree-sap thickener; mild laxative effect at high doses.

Root of a Pacific Island plant, used in traditional drinks

Documented cause of severe liver failure; dose sensitive; drug interactions

Fiber from the konjac plant root

Plant-root fiber that swells with water; may cause bloating or digestive discomfort in large amounts.

Isolated supplement compound

A nootropic supplement whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Gut bacteria convert it to TMAO, linked to accelerated atherosclerosis.

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Gut bacteria convert it to TMAO, linked to accelerated atherosclerosis.

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Isolated amino acids; dose sensitive; benefits vary by individual; may have drug interactions

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Isolated amino acids; dose sensitive; benefits vary by individual; may have drug interactions

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Isolated amino acids; dose sensitive; benefits vary by individual; may have drug interactions

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

A neuroactive supplement whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children

Mechanically processed meat treated with ammonia; industrial processing

Industrial meat paste; altered composition.

Enzyme-modified butter flavor; industrial

Butterfat treated with enzymes to break down its fats and intensify flavor, used as a concentrated flavoring in processed foods. An industrial flavor shortcut, not a whole food.

Hydrogenated/blended industrially processed oils

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Opaque processing

Contains cancer-linked aromatic hydrocarbons.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children; restricted in the EU.

Thickener from carob tree seeds

Natural seed-derived thickener; may cause mild digestive effects in large amounts.

MSG-family flavor enhancer; glutamate salt

An isolated glutamate flavor enhancer. EFSA set a safe daily limit that all population groups currently exceed, and some groups exceed levels linked to effects like headache, raised blood pressure, and increased insulin.

Magnesium fortification compound

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Synthetic emulsifier/anti-caking; industrial processing

Food processing additive useful for long shelf life and mass production

Silicate mineral; anti-caking agent and food processing additive

Food processing additive useful for long shelf life and mass production

Produced by industrial hydrogenation

Causes laxative effects and GI distress when consumed in high amounts

Industrial starch derivative

Linked to intestinal damage or GI distress in mice

Synthetic flavor enhancer

Synthetic flavor enhancer from industrial processing.

Produced by industrial hydrogenation

Causes laxative effects and GI distress when consumed in high amounts

Unspecified manufactured additive; fails transparency

Unidentified ingredient; not enough info to allow

Sweetener from boiled maple tree sap

Added sugar; regularly high intake is linked to inflammation. Use in moderation.

Industrially processed oil-based spread

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Industrial meat processing; high-pressure bone stripping; safety concerns

Industrial meat paste; altered composition.

Industrial meat processing; high-pressure bone stripping; safety concerns

Industrial meat paste; altered composition.

Industrial meat processing; high-pressure bone stripping; safety concerns

Industrial meat paste; altered composition.

Supplement compound

A hormone to help with sleep; supplement territory; effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Isolated amino acids; dose sensitive; benefits vary by individual; may have drug interactions

Synthetic flavoring agent

Synthetic flavoring agent linked to cancer.

Chemically modified cellulose

A chemically altered substance produced by reacting plant fibers with synthetic chemicals like methyl chloride

Synthetic stimulant compound (Dynamine®); supplement territory

A stimulant supplement whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Paraben preservative; endocrine disruptor

Mimics estrogen; associated with hormone disruption and changes in fertility

Industrial appearance additive

Can contain aluminum in amounts that exceed EU acceptable limits; aluminum linked to neurotoxicity in animal studies

Modified cellulose

Modified cellulose isolate used as an industrial filler

Petroleum-derived glazing agent

A petroleum-derived wax used to glaze confectionery, chewing gum, and some fruits. An industrial coating agent, not a whole food.

Engineered fat substitute (Simplesse); microparticulated whey

Engineered fat substitute; no traditional food equivalent.

Dose-sensitive medicinal herb

Medicinal herb; dose sensitive; can have drug interactions

Vitamin E compounds, antioxidants

Synthetic vitamin additive used to fortify foods; not a vitamin delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Modified cellulose

Modified cellulose isolate used as an industrial filler

Industrially modified food product; not traditional processing

Industrially modified through hydrolysis, enzyme treatment, or interesterification; a marker of ultra-processed food.

Guar gum modified with enzymes or hydrolysis

Further modified from a natural gum into a more processed derivative; not a whole food.

Unspecified gum modified with enzymes or hydrolysis

Further modified from a gum into a more processed derivative; not a whole food.

Lecithin modified with enzymes or hydrolysis

Further modified from a lecithin into a more processed derivative; not a whole food.

Waxy starch; chemically modified high-amylopectin starch

Thick syrup left from sugar refining

Added sugar; regularly high intake is linked to inflammation. Use in moderation.

Small green melon native to Southern China, used as a nonnutritive sweetener

Whole-fruit extract with centuries of traditional use in southern China. May reward same reward pathways as sugar, use in moderation.

Industrial emulsifier

Disrupts gut bacteria and promotes inflammation.

MSG-family flavor enhancer; glutamate salt

An isolated glutamate flavor enhancer. EFSA set a safe daily limit that all population groups currently exceed, and some groups exceed levels linked to effects like headache, raised blood pressure, and increased insulin.

MSG-family flavor enhancer; glutamate salt

An isolated glutamate flavor enhancer. EFSA set a safe daily limit that all population groups currently exceed, and some groups exceed levels linked to effects like headache, raised blood pressure, and increased insulin.

MSG-family flavor enhancer; glutamate salt

An isolated glutamate flavor enhancer. EFSA set a safe daily limit that all population groups currently exceed, and some groups exceed levels linked to effects like headache, raised blood pressure, and increased insulin.

Isolated flavor enhancer

An isolated glutamate flavor enhancer. EFSA set a safe daily limit that all population groups currently exceed, and some groups exceed levels linked to effects like headache, raised blood pressure, and increased insulin.

Mono-diglyceride territory; industrial emulsifier

Disrupts gut bacteria and promotes inflammation.

Fossil-wax coating agent

A wax made from acids extracted from lignite (brown coal) and esterified, used to coat the surface of some fresh fruits and in food packaging.

Medicinal herb; neuroactive; supplement/pharmaceutical territory

Medicinal herb that is dose sensitive. While it can have benefits that vary by individual, it can also have drug interactions.

Acid used as a food processing aid

A strong acid used to chemically break down starches and proteins in processing.

Synthetic flavoring agent

Synthetic flavoring agent linked to cancer.

Isolated amino acid; supplement territory

Isolated amino acids; dose sensitive; benefits vary by individual; may have drug interactions

Nanoparticle material; not approved for food use

Nanoparticles cross biological barriers, nano silver linked to inflammation, immune system impact at high doses in animal studies

Antifungal antibiotic used as food preservative (E235)

Antibiotic preservative; raises antimicrobial resistance concerns.

Contains artificial flavor

Contains synthetic flavor compounds; a marker of ultra-processed food.

Flavoring derived from natural sources

Flavoring whose constituents come from natural sources (fruit, spice, herb, etc.), but can hide undisclosed solvents, carriers, and processing aids. Derived from real sources, but not as simple as a whole-food ingredient.

Synthetically derived flavor

Lab-made copies of natural flavor compounds; a marker of ultra-processed food.

Synthetic sweetener/flavor enhancer; chemically modified from citrus

Multi-step chemical synthesis from citrus, up to 1800x sweeter than table sugar.

Artificial sweetener

Linked to metabolic disorders and cardiovascular risk.

Antimicrobial

Antimicrobial; may affect beneficial gut bacteria.

Curing agent; forms carcinogenic nitrosamines in meat

Forms cancer-causing nitrosamines

Synthetic non-digestible fat substitute (olestra family)

The FDA found that Olestra inhibits absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and can cause abdominal cramping and loose stools.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children

Flavoring from certified organic, nonsynthetic sources

Held to a stricter standard than natural flavors; must be from nonsynthetic sources with no synthetic solvents, carriers, artificial preservatives, GMOs, or irradiation. The cleanest flavoring category, though still a processed extract, not a whole food.

Sunflower oil from organically grown seeds (no pesticides, non GMO)

Permitted with caution in mechanically-pressed, high-oleic, or organic forms. Still may be chemically extracted.

Synthetic fungicide; applied to fruit skins

Fungicide restricted in EU over endocrine concerns.

Synthetic plastic-derived glazing agent

A synthetic wax made by oxidizing polyethylene plastic, used as a glaze on some fruits. An industrial coating derived from plastic, not a whole food.

Chemically or industrially processed oil

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Chemically or industrially processed oil

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Chemically or industrially processed oil

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Dose-sensitive medicinal herb (san qi); blood-thinning; supplement territory

Documented interactions with blood thinners, sedatives, and antidepressants.

Synthetic preservative class

Mimics estrogen; associated with hormone disruption and changes in fertility

Petroleum-derived glazing agent

A petroleum-derived wax used to glaze confectionery, chewing gum, and some fruits. An industrial coating agent, not a whole food.

Byproduct of hexane solvent extraction (soybean oil production); industrial process

Extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent.

Source of trans fats

Industrial modified fats linked to heart disease.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children

Chemically or industrially processed oil

Likely extracted with hexane, a neurotoxic solvent. Can contain DNA-damaging contaminants formed during high-heat refining (3-MCPD, glycidol).

Petroleum-derived coating

A wax derived from crude oil refining, used as a coating or glaze. An industrial coating agent, not a whole food.

Mono/diglyceride family member

Disrupts gut bacteria and promotes inflammation.

Phosphate acidulant most common in cola, processed meats and cheese

Most children already exceed EFSA's safe daily limit for phosphate additives; excess phosphate raises cardiovascular and kidney risk

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children

Unqualified flavors could be artificially flavored

Synthesized from petroleum or industrial chemical feedstocks, not from natural food sources. A marker of ultra-processed food.

Industrially extracted cholesterol-lowering additive; supplement territory

A cholesterol-active supplement whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Synthetic humectant/sweetener

Synthetic bulking fiber; can have a laxative effect at higher intakes.

Synthetic polymer; ingredient in common OTC laxatives

A synthetic petroleum-derived polymer used as a coating and in some foods. It is also the active ingredient in OTC laxatives.

Industrial emulsifier

Disrupts gut bacteria and promotes inflammation.

Synthetic emulsifier found in heavily processed chocolates

Chemically modified emulsifier used to improve consistency of ultra processed foods

Antimicrobial preservative; industrial bacterial fermentation

Broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative; may affect beneficial gut bacteria; unauthorized for use in the EU and Canada

Synthetic emulsifier; ethoxylated compound

Synthetic emulsifier; linked to increase in gut permeability in animal studies.

Complex phosphate additive

Most children already exceed EFSA's safe daily limit for phosphate additives; excess phosphate raises cardiovascular and kidney risk

Synthetic emulsifier

Disrupts gut bacteria and promotes inflammation.

Synthetic polymer; stabilizer and clarifier

A synthetic polymer used as a stabilizer and binder in supplement tablets, and as a fining agent to clarify beverages. Made from a petroleum-derived monomer; an industrial additive, not a whole food.

Synthetic dye

Linked to hyperactivity in children

Aluminum-based salt

Neurotoxic in animal studies and accumulates in the body; children can exceed EFSA's safe weekly limit.

Supplement compound

A supplement-category amino acid salt whose effects are dose-dependent and vary by individual.

Synthetic preservative

Can form benzene (carcinogen) with vitamin C.

Chemical preservative and antioxidant for extending shelf life

Can trigger respiratory issues in those with sulfite sensitivity

Possible carcinogen

Possible carcinogen; banned in the EU, UK, Canada, and many other countries.

Potassium fortification compound

Synthetic mineral additive used to fortify foods; not a mineral delivered in its natural whole-food form.

Synthetic preservative

A synthetic preservative made by combining a potassium base with acetic acid. An industrial preservative, not a whole food.

Synthetic preservative

Raises blood sugar and triggers insulin resistance.

Synthetic preservative

Linked to reproductive and developmental delays in animals at mid to high intake; reduced ADI limit in the EU

Processing phosphate used for texture and water retention in processed foods

Most children already exceed EFSA's safe daily limit for phosphate additives; excess phosphate raises cardiovascular and kidney risk

Compressed gas used to pressurize spray cans

Aerosol propellant that pressurizes spray cans; has no nutritional value.

Synthetic preservative class; gut microbiome concerns

Raises blood sugar and triggers insulin resistance.

Synthetic preservative; metabolic/gut microbiome concerns

Raises blood sugar and triggers insulin resistance.

Fails transparency, evaluated on a case by case basis

Proprietary formula; ingredients hidden from consumers.

Synthetic antioxidants