Flavorings & Coloring
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What it is
Flavorings are ingredients added to food to impart or enhance taste and aroma. They can be derived from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices, or they can be produced synthetically. The specific composition of a flavoring is often proprietary.
Why it's used
Flavorings are used in a vast array of processed foods to make them more appealing to consumers. They are essential in products like baked goods, beverages, candies, dairy products, and savory items such as sausages and hot dogs, where they help create or mimic specific taste profiles.
Health notes
In the U.S., flavorings are regulated by the FDA. Many are considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) or are approved food additives. International bodies like EFSA and JECFA have also evaluated many flavoring substances. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some individuals may experience sensitivities to specific flavoring compounds. Research into the long-term health effects of complex flavoring mixtures is ongoing.
Allergen info
Flavorings are not typically derived from the major allergens. However, if a flavoring is derived from a source that is a major allergen (e.g., a spice derived from a plant in the mustard family, which is not a major allergen but can cause reactions in some), this information should be present on the label. Not a major allergen.