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Packaged foods often contain ingredients that enhance flavor and extend shelf life—but some come with hidden costs. Avoiding certain additives can help protect your health and save you money in the long run.
![Woman looking at a food label in a grocery store](https://www.moneytalksnews.com/workers/images/width=1920/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/21115957/shutterstock_2136267049-scaled.jpg?s=d5457ed164f1f7db2fe74906e2e47bae8dc7dad4f46234ffeb9432a1389dfb2a)
Grocery prices keep climbing, and every dollar counts. But what if the food you’re paying for is packed with additives that drain your wallet and harm your health? From artificial dyes to chemical preservatives, these ingredients lurk in everyday staples. Many processed foods seem like budget-friendly choices, but they come with hidden costs. Understanding what’s in your food can help you make…