16Hit1600
Craft and StructureHardMain purpose of an argument about a label

Craft and Structure practice question

The phrase 'natural flavouring' on a label sounds reassuring, and it is meant to. It tells you that the flavour molecule began in a plant or an animal; it does not tell you that the molecule differs from the 'artificial' version, which is often identical atom for atom. The distinction is a legal one, not a chemical one.

What is the main purpose of the text?

  1. A. To argue that a reassuring label rests on a distinction with little chemical meaning.Correct
  2. B. To argue that artificial flavourings are dangerous.
  3. C. To explain how flavour molecules are manufactured.
  4. D. To praise the accuracy of food labels.

Answer: A. To argue that a reassuring label rests on a distinction with little chemical meaning.

The text unpicks what 'natural' does and doesn't tell you, ending with 'legal ... not chemical'.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. To argue that artificial flavourings are dangerous.
The text says the versions are often identical; it doesn't call either dangerous.
C. To explain how flavour molecules are manufactured.
Manufacturing isn't described.
D. To praise the accuracy of food labels.
The text questions the label's meaning rather than praising it.

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