Ingredient · Updated
Artificial Flavors
Found in 12 productsSee all
What is Artificial Flavors?
Artificial flavors are chemically synthesized compounds used to enhance or mimic natural flavors in foods and beverages. They are created by combining various chemical compounds to produce a desired taste profile.
Artificial flavors are widely used in the food industry to achieve consistent and potent flavors, often at a lower cost than natural flavorings. Health evidence regarding artificial flavors is mixed; while generally recognized as safe by regulatory authorities, some consumers prefer natural alternatives due to concerns about synthetic additives.
When you see artificial flavors on a label, it usually indicates the presence of synthetic ingredients engineered for taste rather than nutritional value. This can be a consideration for those concerned with consuming fewer artificial additives.
Commonly found in: candies, beverages, desserts, snack foods, processed meals
What to watch
- Some consumers report sensitivity or allergic reactions to artificial flavors.
Artificial flavors are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in foods and beverages.
Research is mixed; while deemed safe for consumption, artificial flavors are sometimes scrutinized for potential long-term health effects.
Artificial flavors are typically synthetic and not animal-derived, making them suitable for vegan diets.
Scout's take
Undisclosed synthetic flavor chemicals.
The case against
Potential for allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals.
from the analysis of Mentos FRESH MINT SUGARFREE GUM WITH GREEN TEA EXTRACT · echoed in 2 other analysesMay contain synthetic compounds that some individuals are sensitive to. Long-term effects of chronic consumption are not fully understood.
from the analysis of C4 Sport Pre-WorkoutMay contribute to a highly processed food profile with potential sensitivities.
from the analysis of MARQUEZ BROTHERS, EL MEXICANO BRAND, DRINKABLE YOGURT, STRAWBERRYThe case for
Enhances taste and palatability.
from the analysis of C4 Sport Pre-WorkoutMore from Scout's analyses
Synthetic chemical compounds with zero transparency on composition and no nutritional value.
from the analysis of Muscle Milk Genuine Zero Sugar Protein ShakeArtificial flavors are synthetic compounds used to mimic natural flavors. They are highly processed and may contain chemicals that some individuals prefer to avoid. The lack of transparency in their composition can be a concern for consumers seeking natural products.
from the analysis of Mentos FRESH MINT SUGARFREE GUM WITH GREEN TEA EXTRACTArtificial flavors are chemically synthesized compounds used to mimic natural flavors. They are highly processed and may contain additives that are not disclosed on labels. Their use is often associated with ultra-processed foods.
from the analysis of Barebells Peanut Butter Protein BarAll 12 products with Artificial Flavors
Where Artificial Flavors shows up
- Candy 3 products
- Pre-Workout 1 product
- Protein Bars 1 product
- Prepared 1 product
- Yogurt 1 product
- Gum 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Artificial Flavors
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Artificial Flavors, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.