What is termed as any substance added to food that is not normally consumed by itself?

The term that refers to any substance added to food that is not typically consumed on its own is food additive. Food additives are substances that are included in food products to enhance their flavor, appearance, texture, or shelf-life, among other functions. They encompass a wide range of ingredients, including preservatives, colorings, flavorings, emulsifiers, and stabilizers, which are intentionally added to improve the quality and safety of food.

Understanding food additives is key to recognizing their role in food technology, as they can significantly affect the attributes of food products and ensure they meet safety standards and consumer expectations. This knowledge is crucial for those studying food technology, since it helps in evaluating food products effectively.

The other terms, while related to food quality and nutrition, describe different concepts. Preservatives specifically target preservation, enrichment refers to adding nutrients to improve nutritional value, and supplements generally refer to added nutrients taken separately from regular food intake, rather than substances used directly in food products.