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In a world where food needs to stay shelf-stable, travel far, and last long, preservatives have become nearly impossible to avoid. They’re in your snack foods, your soft drinks, your salad dressings—and even in your wine.
But just because they’re common doesn’t mean they’re harmless. In fact, mounting research suggests that some of the most widely used preservatives could be affecting your health in ways that are hard to ignore.
As the in-house Dietitian here at Nourish’d, I’m all about helping you make food choices that support your gut, your energy, and your long-term wellbeing. And that starts with knowing what you’re really eating.
🧂 Preservatives by the Numbers: What’s in Your Food?
Preservatives are usually listed as numbers on Australian food labels—so let’s break down some of the most common (and concerning) ones:
🔸 Preservatives 249–252
- 249: Potassium nitrite
- 250: Sodium nitrite
- 251: Sodium nitrate
- 252: Potassium nitrate
These are commonly added to processed meats like ham, bacon, and salami to prevent bacterial growth. However, when these nitrates and nitrites are heated during cooking, they can convert into nitrosamines, compounds that are strongly linked to stomach and bowel cancer. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) classifies processed meats as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning there’s sufficient evidence they cause cancer in humans.
🔸 Preservatives 220–228
- 220: Sulphur dioxide
- 221: Sodium sulfite
- 222: Sodium bisulfite
- 223: Sodium metabisulfite
- 224: Potassium metabisulfite
- 226: Calcium sulphite
- 227: Calcium bisulfite
- 228: Potassium bisulfite
These sulphite-based preservatives are frequently found in dried fruits, fruit juices, and wine. While they help prevent browning and spoilage, they’ve been known to trigger respiratory symptoms, particularly in people with asthma. The Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) confirms that sulphite sensitivity can cause wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
These preservatives might keep food looking and lasting better—but at what cost to your health?
🌿 Why Nourish’d Is Proudly 100% Preservative-Free
When it comes to your health, cutting corners simply isn’t an option. That’s why we’ve made a conscious choice to stay completely free from preservatives, fillers, and gluten. No hidden additives. No mystery numbers. No ingredients you can’t pronounce.
We believe you deserve real food that fuels your body, not food that leaves you feeling bloated, foggy, or fatigued. Every ingredient in our meals is there for a reason—and it’s never artificial.
Our philosophy is simple: keep it natural, tasty, and real. No B.S. Just whole foods that your body understands and thrives on.
🔍 Want to Live a More Preservative-Free Life? Start Here:
Going preservative-free doesn’t have to mean an overnight overhaul. Here’s how you can start making more conscious food choices today:
- Start with your labels: Look for ingredient lists that are clean and easy to read. If you see numbers or scientific-sounding names, it’s likely loaded with preservatives.
- Audit your pantry: Take stock of what’s already in your kitchen. You might be surprised how many everyday items contain additives like sulphites or nitrates.
- Listen to your body: If you often feel tired, foggy, or bloated, preservatives could be playing a role. Try removing them for a few weeks and notice the difference.
- Follow us for tips: We share food comparisons, gut health tips, and preservative-related info on our Instagram. It’s a great way to stay informed (and inspired).
- Make it easy on yourself: Nourish’d offers over 20 preservative-free meals every week. No planning, no prepping—just food you can trust and love.
🥗 From Our Kitchen to Yours
At Nourish’d, developing meals isn’t just about great taste—it’s about giving your body what it needs to thrive. Preservative-free eating isn’t a trend for us; it’s a non-negotiable. Our team is committed to crafting meals that support your health, using only real, whole ingredients.
If you’re ready to ditch the additives and start eating food that works with your body, not against it, we’re here to make that easy—and delicious.
