Ingredient

Natural Flavors And Flavoring

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Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use natural flavors to enhance or add taste and aroma to a wide …

What it is

Natural flavors and flavoring are complex mixtures derived from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, or animal products. They are created through physical, enzymatic, or microbiological processes, and are intended to impart specific tastes and aromas to food.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use natural flavors to enhance or add taste and aroma to a wide variety of foods, especially processed items. They are commonly found in beverages, baked goods, dairy products, and savory dishes where a specific flavor profile is desired.

Health notes

In the U.S., natural flavors are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used for their intended purpose. 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 exact composition of natural flavors is often proprietary, making specific health assessments challenging.

Allergen info

Natural flavors are not among the nine major allergens unless they are derived from one of those sources (e.g., a natural flavor derived from wheat). Gluten is not inherently present unless the flavoring source contains it.

Products containing Natural Flavors And Flavoring

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.