Natural Flavor And Sulfiting Agents

Natural flavors are complex mixtures derived from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, or animal products. They are created through physical, enzymatic, or microbiological processes. Sulfiting agents are sulfur-based compounds used to preserve food and prevent browning.

Natural flavors are used to enhance or impart specific tastes in a wide variety of foods, from savory dishes to sweets. Sulfiting agents are often added to dried fruits, wine, and processed potatoes to maintain color and extend shelf life.

Natural flavors are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. Sulfiting agents are also approved food additives, but they can cause allergic-type reactions in some individuals, particularly those with asthma. The FDA requires sulfites to be declared on ingredient labels if they are present at levels of 10 parts per million or more. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sulfiting agents and established acceptable daily intakes.