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Artificial Flavors

Also known as: Artificial FlavoringSynthetic Flavors

Definition

Any flavoring substance not derived from a natural source. Manufactured entirely through chemical synthesis in laboratories to mimic natural flavors. The chemical structure may be identical to natural counterparts, but the source is synthetic.

Why It Matters

Like natural flavors, 'artificial flavors' is a catch-all term that can hide dozens of undisclosed chemical compounds. While individually tested for acute toxicity, the long-term cumulative effects of consuming multiple artificial flavor compounds daily across many products are not well studied. The distinction between 'natural' and 'artificial' flavors is largely regulatory — both can contain similar chemical compounds.

Commonly Found In

CandyBaked goodsBeveragesFrozen mealsSnack foods

Related Terms

Natural Flavors

Caution

According to the FDA (21 CFR 101.22), 'natural flavor' is any flavoring derived from a plant or animal source — including fruits, vegetables, herbs, bark, roots, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, or dairy — through heating, distillation, or fermentation. A single 'natural flavor' listing can contain dozens of individual chemical compounds, solvents, emulsifiers, and preservatives.

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