A chemical additive is a substance added to a product to enhance its properties or performance. These additives can be found in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. They serve multiple purposes, such as preserving freshness, improving texture, or increasing stability. In the food industry, for example, preservatives are chemical additives that help prevent spoilage and extend shelf life. Other types of additives include coloring agents, which enhance the appearance of food, and emulsifiers, which help mix ingredients that usually do not combine well, like oil and water.