Additive-free

Made without food additives — or without certain ones. The scope varies by product.

What the claim covers

“Additive-free” on its own does not carry a fixed meaning. It becomes information only when it says what is absent. No added colouring, no preservatives and no added fragrance are three different claims.

Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency has issued guidance on additive-free claims that could mislead, and bare “additive-free” labelling has become less common as a result.

What to check

Whether the claim says what specifically is absent
What is used instead — yeast extract and similar
Without preservatives, shelf life and storage conditions change