10 Food Additives In US Foods That Are Banned In Europe

10 Food Additives In US Foods That Are Banned In Europe


July 6, 2025 | Carl Wyndham

10 Food Additives In US Foods That Are Banned In Europe


Not all countries have the same food safety standards. While the US allows many food additives, the European Union takes a more cautious approach, banning many common American ingredients. The bans most often stem from health concerns. Here are ten food additives allowed in the US but banned in Europe, and the reasons behind those bans.

Potassium Bromate

This is a flour improver in breads and baked goods. Potassium bromate strengthens dough and promotes rising. But animal studies have linked it to kidney and thyroid tumors. For its potential carcinogenic effects, the EU and many other countries prohibit its use in food production.

brown and white doughnuts in boxMadalyn Cox, Unsplash

Advertisement

BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole)

BHA is a preservative for preventing fats and oils from going bad in snacks, cereals, and processed foods. Some studies suggest that BHA may act as a potential human carcinogen, raising cancer concerns. The EU bans its use in certain food products, citing the precautionary principle for consumer protection.

BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)

Like BHA, BHT is a preservative that extends shelf life by preventing oxidation. Animal studies have linked BHT to liver, thyroid, and lung tumors, not to mention potential behavioral issues. While the US allows it, the EU has banned or heavily restricted its use in food products.

Azodicarbonamide

Often added to bread dough for texture and elasticity, azodicarbonamide doubles as a chemical used in the production of plastics. Studies suggest it could cause respiratory issues and has been linked to cancer risks in animal studies. The EU bans its use over health concerns.

Leigh PatrickLeigh Patrick, Pexels

Advertisement

Propyl Paraben

Used as a preservative in baked goods, snacks, and processed foods, propyl paraben can disrupt hormone function and mimic estrogen in the body. Animal studies have shown effects on fertility and developmental issues. The EU has banned its use in food for these potential endocrine-disrupting properties.

Yellow Dye No 5 (Tartrazine)

Yellow Dye No 5 adds a bright yellow color to candies, beverages, and processed snacks. Some studies link it to hyperactivity in children and potential allergic reactions. Though still allowed in the US, the EU requires warning labels and has imposed strict limits. Some countries have banned it entirely.

Yellow Dye No 6 (Sunset Yellow)

Used in products like cereals, candy, and soft drinks, Yellow Dye No 6 has been associated with hyperactivity and allergic reactions. The EU requires warning labels and has imposed maximum limits on its use, citing studies that link the dye to potential behavioral and hypersensitivity issues.

Photo By: Kaboompics.comPhoto By: Kaboompics.com, Pexels

Advertisement

Red Dye No 40

This artificial dye is in many candies, desserts, and soft drinks. Studies have connected Red Dye No. 40 to hyperactivity in children and potential allergic reactions. It’s not completely banned in Europe, but its use is heavily restricted, and products containing it require clear warning labels.

Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO)

BVO is used in citrus-flavored soft drinks to help emulsify the ingredients. However, it contains bromine, which can accumulate in body fat and potentially cause neurological and reproductive issues. The European Union has banned BVO from food products due to these health concerns.

Ractopamine

Ractopamine isn’t a direct food additive, but is used to promote leanness in livestock before slaughter. Its residues can linger in meat products. Studies have raised concerns about cardiovascular, reproductive, and behavioral effects in humans. The EU bans the import and sale of meat from animals treated with ractopamine.

RDNE Stock projectRDNE Stock project, Pexels

Advertisement

Regulatory Differences Matter

The differences between US and European food regulations are the outcome of very different approaches to consumer safety. The US allows many additives under the assumption of safety until proven otherwise, whereas Europe often adopts a precautionary stance, banning or restricting additives with potential health risks. Regardless of where you live, it’s critical to be informed so you can make the safest food choices for you and your family.

You May Also Like:

Are You Adding Too Much Salt To Your Food?

The Most Disgusting Food From Around The World

Foods That Are Banned In The U.S.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4


READ MORE

July 30, 2025 | Jane O'Shea

Colombian Cuisine: Flavors Of A Diverse Country

Shaped by Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences, Colombian cuisine has something delicious to offer for everyone.
August 12, 2025 | J.D. Blackwell

Robot Restaurants: The Fast-Food Wave Of The Future?

Robot workers are an increasingly common sight in America’s fast-food restaurants, raising questions about customer experience and job security.
August 20, 2025 | Peter Kinney

The Best Foods For Keeping Your Blood Pressure Low

High blood pressure is one of people's bigget health concerns. We review the best foods for your cardiovascular health.
August 18, 2025 | Alex Summers

The Short But Eventful History Of The Baguette, Symbol Of France

The baguette is a symbol of France, but its origin is more recent than most people think.
July 29, 2025 | Alex Summers

The Regional Origins Of Italy’s Most Famous Dishes

Italian food isn't a single unified cuisine, but have regional roots. Getting to know where these dishes come from can add to our appreciation of good Italian.
August 15, 2025 | Sammy Tran

America's Best Regional Cuisines

Every region of the United States offers its own unique flavors shaped by local history, climate, and culture. We tour the nation's most cherished traditions, and some you may not have heard of.