Flavour Enhancer

Flavor enhancers are substances added to food to intensify or modify its existing taste and aroma. They can be naturally derived from sources like yeast extract or mushrooms, or produced synthetically through chemical processes.

Manufacturers add flavor enhancers to boost the savory (umami) taste of foods, making them more appealing. They are commonly found in processed foods such as seasoning mixes, soups, sauces, snacks, and frozen meals.

In the U.S., many flavor enhancers are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA or approved food additives. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated various flavor enhancers. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some individuals report sensitivity to certain flavor enhancers, experiencing symptoms like headaches. Research on these effects is ongoing and sometimes yields mixed results.