Food additives enhance the taste, texture, and appearance of processed foods. They are substances added to food during preparation or processing to improve its nutritional value, appearance, flavor, and shelf life. Food additives can also prevent bacteria growth and preserve food quality. Synonyms for the term "food additive" include supplement, enhancer, agent, ingredient, flavoring, preservative, and fortifier. Food manufacturers use these additives to improve the overall quality of their products and meet consumers' changing food preferences and demands. However, excessive intake of food additives can have adverse health effects, and it is important to choose natural and organic products whenever possible.