Natural Flavor And Carob Bean Gum

Natural flavor is a complex mixture of aromatic compounds derived from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, or animal products. Carob bean gum is a thickening and stabilizing agent made from the seeds of the carob tree, native to the Mediterranean region. The seeds are ground into a fine powder.

Natural flavor is used to enhance or impart specific tastes to foods and beverages. Carob bean gum acts as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier, improving texture and preventing ingredient separation. They are commonly found in dairy products, baked goods, and frozen desserts like ice cream.

Both natural flavors and carob bean gum are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for their intended use in food. Natural flavors are not subject to specific safety evaluations by international bodies like JECFA or EFSA in the same way as synthetic additives. Carob bean gum has been evaluated by EFSA, which has established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for it. There are no widespread controversies or significant health concerns associated with the typical consumption of these ingredients.