What's in processed snacks

Molecules in it 9

• Monosodium glutamateC5H8NNaO4

  On MoleculeFinder's curated processed snacks list from source

  MSG, the sodium salt of glutamic acid and the purest form of savory taste. It is what the tongue is detecting when food reads as umami.

• Sodium chlorideClNa

  On MoleculeFinder's curated processed snacks list from source

  Table salt. Sodium and chloride ions in a cubic lattice, and the only rock people eat on purpose.

  As a pure substance: LD50 3,000 mg/kg (rat, oral) from source

• MaltodextrinC18H32O16

  On MoleculeFinder's curated processed snacks list from source

  A short chain of glucose units made from starch, and one of the most common things on an ingredients list: it bulks up powders and thickens sauces.

• Silicon dioxideO2Si

  On MoleculeFinder's curated processed snacks list from source

  Silica: sand, quartz, glass, and the little desiccant packet in a shoebox. It is also the anti-caking agent that keeps powdered food pourable.

  As a pure substance: LD50 22,500 mg/kg (rat, oral) from source

• Allura Red ACC18H14N2Na2O8S2

  On MoleculeFinder's curated processed snacks list from source

  Red 40, the most-used red food dye in the United States. It colors sports drinks, candy, and breakfast cereal.

• Propylene glycolC3H8O2

  On MoleculeFinder's curated processed snacks list from source

  The carrier liquid in vape juice, fog machines, and many liquid medicines. It holds water, so it keeps things moist without being sweet.

  As a pure substance: LD50 22,000 mg/kg (rat, oral) from source

• AcrylamideC3H5NO

  On MoleculeFinder's curated processed snacks list from source

  A molecule that forms when starchy foods are toasted or fried to a deep brown.

  As a pure substance: LD50 124 mg/kg (rat, oral) from source

• Sodium benzoateC7H5NaO2

  On MoleculeFinder's curated processed snacks list from source

  A preservative in soft drinks and salad dressings. Combined with vitamin C in the same bottle it can slowly form traces of benzene.

  As a pure substance: LD50 3,450 mg/kg (rat, oral) from source

• Potassium sorbateC6H7KO2

  On MoleculeFinder's curated processed snacks list from source

  The mold inhibitor in cheese, wine, and baked goods, and one of the most widely used food preservatives in the world.

  As a pure substance: LD50 4,920 mg/kg (rat, oral) from source