Ingredient
Natural Flavors
What is Natural Flavors?
Natural flavors are complex mixtures created from substances extracted from plant or animal sources. They are crafted to mimic naturally occurring flavors and are often used in processed foods, beverages, and supplements to enhance taste.
While the term 'natural' might suggest healthfulness, natural flavors can include a wide range of chemicals, some heavily processed, to achieve desired flavors. The exact composition usually remains proprietary, and thus, undisclosed on product labels, leading to a lack of transparency.
For consumers, the presence of natural flavors can signal an attempt to add palatability without disclosing specific flavoring agents. Despite being labeled as natural, they are manufactured in labs similarly to artificial flavors.
Commonly found in: soft drinks, flavored waters, snack foods, baked goods, protein supplements, candy
What to watch
- Natural flavors may trigger allergic reactions in some sensitive individuals due to unknown components.
Natural flavors are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. They undergo safety evaluations for intended use.
Research finds that natural flavors are similar to artificial flavors in processing impact; however, there's limited evidence directly linking them to health hazards.
Natural flavors may contain animal-derived components; vegans often seek clarification from manufacturers.
Scout's take
Umbrella term that can hide dozens of undisclosed synthetic flavor constituents.
The case against
Potential allergen risk due to undisclosed ingredients; may contain additives or preservatives.
from the analysis of Califia Farms TOASTED COCONUT ALMONDMILK BLEND · echoed in 4 other analysesPotential allergens or sensitivities may be present due to undisclosed components.
from the analysis of Chobani Complete Strawberry Cream Yogurt Shake · echoed in 3 other analysesPotential allergen risk due to undisclosed components and processing methods.
from the analysis of Chobani VANILLA BLENDED WITH GREEK YOGURT · echoed in 2 other analysesMay contain allergens or compounds that some individuals are sensitive to, without clear labeling.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond Almonds UNSWEETENED ALMONDMILK, VANILLA · echoed in 1 other analysisPotential for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to undisclosed components.
from the analysis of Momentous Whey Protein Isolate · echoed in 1 other analysisThe case for
Enhances flavor without adding calories or artificial ingredients.
from the analysis of bear naked Cereal All Natural Fit Vanilla Almond · echoed in 3 other analysesEnhances flavor, making the product more palatable.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond ALMONDMILK, UNSWEETENED ORIGINALImproves taste without adding calories.
from the analysis of Lifeway STRAWBERRY KEFIR CULTURED LOWFAT MILKEnhances flavor and palatability.
from the analysis of Zevia Zero Sugar Energy DrinkMore from Scout's analyses
Proprietary flavor blend; can hide dozens of synthetic aroma chemicals and phthalate carriers under FDA trade-secret rules.
from the analysis of Transparent Labs Mass Gainer Chocolate Peanut ButterNatural flavors are a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources. They are highly processed and can contain numerous chemical compounds. The lack of transparency in their composition raises concerns about potential allergens and sensitivities.
from the analysis of DAYDREAMING ABOUT DONUTS DONUTS BARAn undefined catch-all permitting dozens of undisclosed compounds, including carriers and solvents that never appear on the label. Near-universal in this category, but it is still a transparency gap.
from the analysis of MAC Energy DrinkFound in 131 products
+ 107 more products in the Scout app
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.
Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play