Spices And Natural Flavors

Spices and natural flavors are complex mixtures used to add taste and aroma to foods. Spices are typically dried seeds, fruits, roots, barks, or vegetative substances, while natural flavors are derived from plant or animal sources through physical, enzymatic, or microbiological processes.

Manufacturers use spices and natural flavors to enhance palatability and create distinct taste profiles in a wide variety of foods. They are commonly found in savory products like sauces, processed meats, snacks, and baked goods, as well as in beverages and confectionery.

In the U.S., 'spices' and 'natural flavors' are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many individual flavor compounds and spices. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some individuals may experience sensitivities or allergies to specific components within these complex mixtures.