Caramel Natural Flavor

Caramel flavor is a taste that can be derived from heating sugars, often with other ingredients like butter or cream. "Natural flavor" means the flavoring substance is derived from natural sources like plants or animals, and it is not synthesized. Caramel flavor can be created through controlled heating (caramelization) of sugars.

Manufacturers add caramel flavor to provide a sweet, rich taste reminiscent of cooked sugar. It is commonly used in a wide variety of foods, including baked goods, candies, ice cream, beverages, and savory sauces, to enhance or create a specific flavor profile.

Caramel flavor is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a flavoring agent. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated flavoring substances, and caramel compounds are typically considered safe for consumption at levels used in food. While caramelization involves heating sugars, the resulting flavor compounds are not typically associated with negative health effects at normal dietary intakes.