Concentrate

A concentrate is a substance that has had water or other diluents removed. It is a more potent or concentrated form of the original product. For example, fruit juice concentrate is made by removing water from fresh juice, making it easier to transport and store.

Concentrates are used to intensify flavors and colors in foods and beverages, and to reduce shipping weight and volume. They are common in fruit juices, nectars, candy, baked goods, and sauces. Manufacturers use them to achieve a desired taste, appearance, and texture in their products.

In the US, concentrates are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. The health effects of consuming concentrates are typically related to the original food source. For instance, fruit juice concentrates still contain natural sugars and nutrients. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated various specific concentrates, but their evaluations do not typically raise widespread concerns at levels found in food.