Learn Glossary flavoring

Natural Flavorings

Level 3ContestedIn Winter's Dictionary

Natural Flavorings is a flavoring — Material obtained by physical processes — distillation, extraction, enzyme action — of plant or animal origin

What it does

Material obtained by physical processes — distillation, extraction, enzyme action — of plant or animal origin

Where you'll see it

labeled on thousands of processed foods

What the research says

Vague catch-all term covering essential oils, essences, extractives, protein hydrolysates, fermentation products, heating/enzyme products. Can mask MSG-containing ingredients.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: GRAS
  • Notes: May result in 'unavoidable but unintentional' changes in chemical structures

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): Natural flavoring complexes include the essential oil, essence, or extractive, protein hydrolysate distillate, or any product of roasting, heating, or enzyme action