Natural Flavor And Spices

Natural flavors are complex mixtures derived from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, and other edible plant or animal materials. They are created through physical, enzymatic, or microbiological processes to add taste and aroma to foods.

Manufacturers use natural flavors and spices to enhance or impart specific tastes and aromas in a wide variety of foods. They are commonly found in condiments like ketchup, mustard, and salad dressings, as well as in processed meats and snacks.

Natural flavors are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated many flavor compounds. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, the complexity of natural flavor mixtures means specific health impacts are not always well-defined.