We live in a world where natural products are touted as being the most wholesome, healthier, better for the planet and tastier. The problem is shelf life, as natural foods also spoil faster, and even our just-in-time world needs things that will last more than a day or two in the refrigerator.

Thus, the genesis of the food additive. These additives include artificial colors, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners, all designed to boost the taste, longevity, wholesomeness and shelf life of many of the products found in our grocery stores.

Some accuse food additives of causing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders, cancer, heart disease and obesity. There are certain additives that are fine in one country, but banned in another. The European Union requires that foods containing certain additives bear a warning that the product "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children."

But even among the scientific research community, there is no consensus on whether certain products are harmful or harmless. Which is why they continue to be sold.

One thing is certain - food additives are controversial, and there will always be people lined up on either side of the argument when it comes to whether they should be present in our foods or not. Most nutritionists agree that the best overall diet is one that focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods. But for the sake of time, money and convenience, many Americans can't quite live up to the ideal diet, making it necessary to consume foods that are chock full of additives.