Hungarian Consumers Unaware of Food Additive Use

According to a study by internet researcher and consultancy eNet, sponsored by Coca-Cola, Hungarians use a large amount of additives every day, despite reportedly being distrustful towards them.

According to a press release sent to the Budapest Business Journal, a significant portion of Hungarian consumers claim to avoid additives. Almost 90% of those who participated in the survey think that they do not use bulking agents while baking; however, nearly 80% also admitted to using baking powder, which is itself a bulking agent.

The trend can also be observed in the case of flavor enhancers. Some 69% claim not to use any kind of flavor enhancers, while more than 60% of respondents admitted to using products such as bouillon cubes, which contain enhancers.

The percentages shed light on how unaware the Hungarian public is of what are considered additives, despite negative attitudes towards them, eNet says.

The study also investigated the rejection of specific additives. Six out of ten adults tend to read the ingredients of the foods they buy, rejecting texture and consistency enhancers the most, and sweeteners the least.