Natural Flavor Including Smoke Flavor

Natural flavors are complex mixtures of aromatic chemicals derived from natural sources like plants or animal tissues. Smoke flavor is a type of natural flavor created by burning wood and capturing the smoke. This smoke is then processed to extract the aromatic compounds that give food a smoky taste and aroma.

Manufacturers use natural flavors, including smoke flavors, to add or enhance specific tastes and aromas in foods. They are commonly found in processed meats, snacks, sauces, and baked goods to provide desirable savory, smoky, or complex flavor profiles.

Natural flavors are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. Regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA have evaluated many flavor compounds, and they are widely used in food. While generally considered safe in typical amounts, some individuals may have sensitivities to specific flavor compounds. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical consumption of natural flavors.