Natural Flavors Citric Acid

Natural flavors are complex mixtures of aromatic chemicals, essential oils, and other flavoring substances derived from natural sources like plants or animal parts. They are created through physical, enzymatic, or microbiological processes and are used to impart specific tastes and aromas to foods. The exact composition is proprietary and varies by manufacturer.

Manufacturers use natural flavors to enhance or add specific taste profiles to a wide range of products, including beverages, baked goods, dairy products, and savory dishes. They are crucial for replicating the taste of fruits, spices, herbs, and other natural ingredients without using the whole ingredient.

In the U.S., natural flavors are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated flavorings, though specific evaluations for 'natural flavors' as a broad category are complex due to their varied compositions. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some individuals may have sensitivities to specific components within natural flavor mixtures.