Certain nitrate-free preservatives can found in fruit and berries, and have been demonstrated by the FDA, USDA, and national scientific bodies as safe for consumption. Nitrate-free preservatives provide significant benefits for the consumer and none have been found to be harmful when used appropriately. Univera is committed to the use of preservatives only when there is a compelling consumer safety need AND the ingredient has been widely observed as having no adverse effects.
Preservatives used in liquid Univera products are all GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the USDA and FDA, including minimal amounts of sodium benzoate (benzoic acid), citric acid and potassium sorbate (sorbic acid). Importantly, these natural compounds are found in berries and other fruits. Sorbic acid is very effective against yeast, and benzoic acid inhibits the growth of mold and bacteria. Both have significant antioxidant activity. In other words, berries and other fruits manufacture these organic acids to protect themselves. We add a little more of these ingredients to Aloe Gold®, MetaBerry®, Xtra™ and Xperia™, to protect the beneficial polysaccharides in these products.
For valuable information on safety, please see univerascience.com Articles & White Papers title: The Truth About Preservatives.
