Natural Flavorings

Natural flavorings are substances extracted from natural sources like spices, fruits, vegetables, edible yeasts, herbs, barks, roots, or dairy products. They are created by heating, fermenting, or otherwise processing these source materials to concentrate their flavor compounds. Their primary purpose is to add taste to food, not nutritional value.

Manufacturers add natural flavorings to enhance or impart specific tastes to foods and beverages. They are widely used across many processed foods, including snacks, drinks, dairy products, and savory dishes, to create a consistent and appealing flavor profile.

In the US, natural flavorings are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. At typical intake levels, they are considered safe for consumption. JECFA (the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) have evaluated many individual flavoring substances, but not 'natural flavorings' as a broad category. Some consumers express concern that the term 'natural' may imply a healthier or less processed ingredient, although natural flavorings can still undergo significant processing and contain various components. Evidence suggests that natural flavorings do not pose a health risk for most people at typical consumption levels.