Ingredient

Flavor Enhancer

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Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use flavor enhancers to make foods taste richer, fuller, and more savory, a …

What it is

Flavor enhancers are substances added to food to intensify or modify its existing taste and aroma. They are often derived from natural sources like yeast extract or soybeans, or produced synthetically. These compounds work by stimulating taste receptors on the tongue, making food taste more appealing.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use flavor enhancers to make foods taste richer, fuller, and more savory, a sensation often described as 'umami.' They are commonly found in processed foods such as soups, sauces, snacks, seasonings, and canned goods to improve their palatability.

Health notes

Flavor enhancers like monosodium glutamate (MSG) are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when consumed in typical amounts. Some individuals report sensitivity to MSG, experiencing symptoms like headaches or flushing, though scientific studies have not consistently linked these symptoms to MSG consumption at normal dietary levels. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated flavor enhancers and established safety guidelines.

Allergen info

Some flavor enhancers can be derived from major allergens like soy or wheat. For example, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, a source of MSG, may be derived from soy or wheat. Consumers should check product labels for specific allergen information.

Products containing Flavor Enhancer

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Wise Foods, Inc. Corn Sncks Other Snacks 536kcal 7.1Protein 28.6Fat 60.7Carbs SPARTAN Bouillon Cubes Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 135kcal 0Protein 0Fat 27.0Carbs Light Chili Corned Tuna CDO FOODSPHERE, INC. Light Chili Corned Tuna Canned Tuna 145kcal 12.7Protein 9.1Fat 3.6Carbs DONG WON Dong Won, Sesame Leaves, Mild Canned Vegetables 100kcal 4.3Protein 2.1Fat 15.7Carbs DONG WON Dong Won, Sesame Leaves, Hot Canned Vegetables High in sodium — 53% DV per serving 93kcal 4.3Protein 2.1Fat 14.3Carbs Instant Chow Mein LUCKY ME! Instant Chow Mein All Noodles High in sodium — 30% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 450kcal 10Protein 20Fat 58.3Carbs Cream Soup Powder OTTOGI AMERICA, INC Cream Soup Powder Other Soups 444kcal 5.6Protein 11.1Fat 72.2Carbs Dehydrated All Purposes Stock JUMBO AROMA Dehydrated All Purposes Stock Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 40Carbs MONTE CUDINE Instant Pumpkin Soup Other Soups High in sodium — 32% DV per serving 345kcal 6.9Protein 6.9Fat 75.9Carbs VIETNAM FOOD INDUSTRIES JOINT STOCK COMPANY Chao Ca Fish Instant Porridge Flavored Rice Dishes High in sodium — 74% DV per serving 258kcal 6.7Protein 5Fat 46.7Carbs BENIHANA Hibachi Chicken Rice Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 25% DV per serving 135kcal 8Protein 3Fat 19.5Carbs Zemita LIDO Zemita Candy High in added sugars — 40% DV per serving 380kcal 5Protein 16Fat 55Carbs
Salt (434 products) Monosodium Glutamate (365 products) Sugar (301 products) Citric Acid (213 products) Natural Flavors (210 products) Vegetable Oil (208 products) Maltodextrin (204 products) Onion Powder (203 products) Corn (194 products) Cottonseed (173 products)

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.