What Exactly Is That And Why Is It In My Coffee Cake?

How many times has a food label left you scratching your head? Unless you have an advanced degree in chemistry you're probably mystified by MSG, ascorbic acid, soy lecithin and a host of other cryptic ingredients present in the foods you eat. Now, thanks to the power of the Web, the answers are a click away!

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with the International Food Information Council (IFIC), have created a fact sheet online that answers many of the questions you might have about food ingredients & colors--questions like, "what is guar gum and why is it in my food?" or "how are additives approved for use in foods?" among others.

So, next time you're wondering what that odd sounding food additive is, click your mouse instead of scratching your head!