Flavour

Flavors are substances that give food its taste and smell. They can be derived from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, spices, or herbs, or they can be created synthetically in a lab. Natural flavors are made from plant or animal materials, while artificial flavors are made using chemical compounds.

Manufacturers add flavors to enhance or impart specific taste profiles to food products. They are used in a wide variety of foods, including baked goods, candies, beverages, and savory dishes, to make them more appealing to consumers.

In the U.S., flavors are regulated by the FDA. Many flavoring substances are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) or approved food additives. International bodies like JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) also evaluate flavorings. Evidence generally supports the safety of approved flavorings at typical consumption levels.