This isn't true. The FDA process is a chemical must be on the "GRAS" list (generally regarded as safe) to be used as a food additive. To get on that list, but

This isn't true. The FDA process is a chemical must be on the "GRAS" list (generally regarded as safe) to be used as a food additive. To get on that list, but must be the same level of data to support the conclusion it's safe, as a new additive that is reviewed by the FDA. There was a grandfathering in of additives used before 1958, but the FDA reviewed those products as well. https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/generally-recognized-safe-gras https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/generall... General recognition of safety through scientific procedures is based upon the application of generally available and accepted scientific data, information, or methods, which ordinarily are published, as well as the application of scientific principles, and may be corroborated by the application of unpublished scientific data, information, or methods.