Description
The term ‘natural flavors’ on food labels often gives a sense of safety, but it can hide a complex mix of chemicals, additives, and synthetic substances. Understanding what it really means empowers me to make more informed food choices.
Ingredients
- Natural flavors (umbrella term)
- Essential oils
- Extracts and distillates
- Protein hydrolysates
- Compounds from roasting, heating, or fermentation
- Solvents, emulsifiers, and preservatives (sometimes synthetic)
Instructions
- Read food labels critically — ‘natural flavors’ doesn’t always mean healthy.
- Choose products with clearly listed ingredients like ‘vanilla extract’ or ‘lemon juice.’
- Contact companies if you have dietary restrictions or allergies and need more transparency.
- Limit ultra-processed foods and prioritize whole or minimally processed items.
- Stay informed about labeling laws and marketing tactics that can mislead consumers.
Notes
- ‘Natural flavors’ may legally contain additives and chemicals not disclosed on the label.
- They can include allergens or animal-derived substances.
- Products labeled ‘vegan’ or ‘no natural/artificial flavors’ are more transparent.
- Whole foods and homemade alternatives offer greater ingredient control.
- Prep Time: 0 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Informational
- Method: Research & Awareness
- Cuisine: N/A
Nutrition
- Serving Size: N/A
- Calories: 0
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
