更短的配料表就更“干净”吗？专家：这是误区

Core Viewpoint - The concept of "clean label" has become a significant selling point for food products, emphasizing simple and natural ingredient lists without unnecessary additives [1][2] Group 1: Clean Label Definition and Market Trends - "Clean label" foods are characterized by a simple ingredient list, prioritizing natural components, and avoiding unnecessary chemical additives [1] - A specific product example is a "clean label" egg tart priced at 16.9 yuan per box, which is double the price of regular egg tarts, and has attracted over 50,000 orders within a month [1] - The clean label concept originated in Europe and lacks a unified standard, leading to various interpretations and marketing claims by companies [2] Group 2: Safety and Nutritional Implications - There is no direct correlation between fewer additives and greater safety or nutrition; appropriate food additives can enhance food quality and safety [2][3] - The use of food additives is regulated under a whitelist system, ensuring that only safe additives are used within specified limits [3] - Consumers often mistakenly believe that shorter ingredient lists indicate cleaner products, but this can be misleading as some products may require multiple additives to achieve desired qualities [3][4] Group 3: Consumer Perception and Pricing - Many consumers perceive "clean label" products as healthier, leading to higher prices, often two to three times that of regular products [3] - Companies may leverage the clean label trend for marketing purposes, even when the production process naturally results in simpler ingredient lists [3][4] - Understanding ingredient lists and nutritional information is crucial for consumers, as many may not fully comprehend the implications of what they are purchasing [4]