Natural Applewood Smoke

Natural applewood smoke is created by burning applewood, a type of hardwood from apple trees. The smoke is then captured and processed, often condensed into a liquid form. This liquid concentrate imparts a smoky flavor and aroma to foods.

Manufacturers use natural applewood smoke flavoring to add a desirable smoky taste to foods without traditional smoking methods. It is commonly found in savory products like barbecue sauces, ketchup, mustards, salad dressings, and processed meats and seafood.

Natural applewood smoke flavoring is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated smoke flavorings. While traditional smoking can create compounds of concern, the concentrated liquid smoke flavorings are processed to reduce these. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from consuming foods with natural applewood smoke flavoring at typical levels.