Chemical Food Additives and Human Health: Toxicological Mechanisms, Exposure Assessment, and Risk Evaluation

Abstract

This study examines the safety of chemical food additives in relation to toxicological mechanisms, dietary exposure, and risk evaluation frameworks. Food additives are widely used in processed foods to enhance quality and shelf life, yet their long-term health implications remain a subject of concern. Using a qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this study synthesizes recent research to identify key patterns linking additive functions, cumulative exposure, and biological effects. The findings indicate that dietary intake of multiple additives is continuous and may exceed simplified regulatory assumptions based on individual compounds. At the molecular level, mechanisms such as oxidative stress and metabolic disruption are identified as key pathways of toxicity. Furthermore, existing risk assessment models, including acceptable daily intake, may not fully capture combined exposure and real-world consumption patterns. This study highlights the need for more integrative approaches to food additive safety evaluation and risk management.