Ingredient · Updated
Artificial Flavor
Found in 21 productsSee all
What is Artificial Flavor?
Artificial flavors are chemically synthesized compounds designed to mimic natural flavors. These flavors are created in a lab and can include a wide array of artificial compounds that do not occur naturally.
They are used to enhance the taste and aroma of food products, often providing a consistent flavor profile that may be difficult to achieve with natural ingredients alone. There is some debate about their health impacts, but they are generally considered safe for consumption when used as food additives.
When artificial flavor is listed on a label, it's an indicator that the product contains synthetic flavoring agents. This can be important for consumers seeking to avoid artificial ingredients in their diets.
Commonly found in: candies, soft drinks, baked goods, desserts, processed snacks
What to watch
- Artificial flavors can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Some consumers report adverse reactions like headaches and hyperactivity, though these are not universally experienced.
Benefits
- Artificial flavors can create consistent taste across batches of a product.
- They often enhance flavor with fewer calories than natural alternatives.
Artificial flavors are considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA.
While most studies indicate safety, some research suggests potential sensitivities or reactions in certain individuals.
Artificial flavors are typically synthesized and are suitable for vegan diets.
Sources: Overview of Food Ingredients, Additives & Colors · Artificial Flavors Overview
Scout's take
Undisclosed synthetic flavor compounds.
The case against
Potential for undisclosed chemicals and unknown long-term health effects.
from the analysis of Oreo Double Stuf Golden · echoed in 2 other analysesLack of transparency and potential for containing unwanted chemical compounds.
from the analysis of Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLSMay contain additives that could cause allergic reactions or sensitivities.
from the analysis of Honey Maid Graham CrackersMay cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals.
from the analysis of Corporacion Cressida YUMMIES, ZAMBOS, PLANTAIN CHIPSMay contain undisclosed chemicals with unknown health effects.
from the analysis of Oreo Double Stuf ChocolateThe case for
Provides consistent flavoring in processed foods.
from the analysis of David Protein BarMore from Scout's analyses
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
from the analysis of Oreo Double Stuf ChocolateUndisclosed synthetic flavor compounds — package is labeled 'Artificially Flavored'.
from the analysis of Sour Patch Kids TropicalSynthetic chemical flavoring with zero transparency.
from the analysis of Chips Ahoy OriginalAll 21 products with Artificial Flavor
Where Artificial Flavor shows up
- Candy 7 products
- Cookies 6 products
- Salty Snacks 3 products
- Protein Bars 1 product
- Crackers 1 product
- Ice Cream 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Artificial Flavor
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Artificial Flavor, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.