The ingredients list on a food label gives information on food additives and preservatives.
Additives perform a variety of useful functions in foods that consumers often take for granted. They are used to To Maintain or Improve Safety and Freshness, To Improve or Maintain Nutritional Value and Improve Taste, Texture and Appearance.
The use preservatives is basically to prevent food spoilage from bacteria, molds, fungi, or yeast (antimicrobials); slow or prevent changes in color, flavor, or texture and delay rancidity (antioxidants); maintain freshness.