Ingredient

Natural Citrus Extract

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add Natural Citrus Extract to provide or enhance citrus flavor in a wide …

What it is

Natural Citrus Extract is a flavoring ingredient derived from the peel of citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. It is produced by pressing or extracting the oil from the fruit peel, often using methods like steam distillation or cold pressing. The resulting liquid captures the characteristic aroma and taste of the citrus fruit.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add Natural Citrus Extract to provide or enhance citrus flavor in a wide variety of food products. It is commonly found in beverages such as teas, sodas, and flavored waters, as well as in candies, baked goods, and desserts. Its bright, fresh taste can also be used to balance sweetness or add complexity to savory dishes.

Health notes

Natural Citrus Extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring agent. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated many flavoring substances, including citrus extracts, and generally consider them safe at typical consumption levels. There are no widespread controversies or significant health concerns associated with the consumption of natural citrus extracts at levels found in food.

Allergen info

Natural Citrus Extract is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Natural Citrus Extract

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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.