Are Preservatives Used in Prepared Meals?

Some prepared food companies emphasize that they do not use preservatives in the kitchen. A preservative is usually a chemical added to foods to inhibit spoilage. For keeping food fresh without preservatives, companies can use methods such as freezing and vacuum-sealing their meal packages. However, if the company uses an ingredient in its food that already includes a preservative then it does in fact get into the meal. Check with the company to find out if it uses any ingredients with preservatives if you are concerned about preservatives in your food.