formulation - a substance prepared according to a formula; the physician prescribed a commercial preparation of the medicine. preparation. cleaner, cleanser, cleansing agent - a preparation used in cleaning something.
A food additive is any chemical substance that is added to food during preparation or storage and either becomes a part of the food or affects its characteristics for the purpose of achieving a particular technical effect.
Agent or factor that, when combined with other agents and factors, adds to their cumulative effect or strength usually by a known degree or extent. A food additive, for example, is added to enhance the flavor, improve the appearance, extend the shelf life, or fortify the nutritional value of a food.