B2nounfoodhealth
US/prɪˈzɜːr.və.tɪv/
UK/prɪˈzɜː.və.tɪv/
a substance added to food or other products to stop them from going bad
In context
This juice contains no artificial colors or preservatives.
Salt has been used as a natural preservative for thousands of years.
Some people avoid packaged snacks because of the chemical preservatives in them.
Words that go with preservative
adjective + noun
- artificial preservativeThe label says there are no artificial preservatives.
- natural preservativeVinegar is a natural preservative used in pickles.
- chemical preservativeSome chemical preservatives are linked to allergies.
verb + noun
- contain preservativesMost canned foods contain preservatives.
- add a preservativeManufacturers add a preservative to extend shelf life.
adjective + preposition
- free of preservativesOur sauces are free of preservatives.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
This food has no preservation.Correct: This food has no preservatives.