The Truth About -18℃: Do Frozen Foods Really Need Preservatives?

Time: 2025-07-15

When selecting frozen foods at the supermarket, many consumers have this question: Do these frozen foods, stored at -18℃, still need preservatives? Online rumors claiming that "frozen dumplings contain more preservatives than spicy strips" have caused many to worry about the safety of frozen foods.

When selecting frozen foods at the supermarket, many consumers have this question: Do these frozen foods, stored at -18℃, still need preservatives? Online rumors that "frozen dumplings contain more preservatives than spicy strips" have caused many to worry about the safety of frozen foods.

First, it must be clarified that regular manufacturers' frozen foods usually do not require additional preservatives. This is because freezing technology itself is the most natural "preservative" - by quickly cooling food to below -18℃ within 30 minutes, it effectively inhibits the growth and reproduction of microorganisms. Furthermore, the national "National Food Safety Standard Frozen Noodles and Rice Products" (GB 19295) clearly stipulates that frozen foods are not allowed to contain chemical preservatives such as benzoic acid.

So, how to identify whether frozen foods contain preservatives? The key is to check the ingredient list. If the ingredient list clearly lists preservative ingredients, such as potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, etc., then this food contains preservatives. Conversely, if these ingredients are not listed, it is likely a preservative-free frozen food.

It should be noted that frozen food itself is not equivalent to unhealthy or containing preservatives. As long as you choose regular products, pay attention to the ingredient list, and store and consume them properly, you don't have to worry too much about preservatives. The key to a healthy diet is diversified choices and moderate intake. Frozen foods can be reasonably included in the diet as convenient foods, but they should not be consumed solely for a long time.

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