Ingredient · Updated
Natural Flavors
Found in 165 productsSee all
Evoir Sleep Stack Drink Powder 
Evoir Brain Stack Nootropic Drink Powder 
Evoir Acne Stack Clear Skin Drink Powder 
Joggy Organic Energy Drink 
Honest Kids Organic Apple Juice Drink 
Momentous Whey Protein Isolate 
Safe Catch Tuna Flavors 
ONNIT Alpha Brain Instant Peach Flavored Cognitive Support Drink Mix 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 5 other analysesPotential allergen risk due to undisclosed ingredients and processing methods.
from the analysis of Lily's 40% CHOCOLATE & MILK, CARAMELIZED & SALTED · echoed in 5 other analysesPotential allergen risk due to undisclosed components; may cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Chobani 20g Protein Vanilla Lowfat Greek Yogurt · 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 for containing undisclosed additives or allergens.
from the analysis of Fairlife CHOCOLATE HIGH PROTEIN MILK SHAKE · echoed in 3 other analysesThe case for
Enhances flavor without adding calories or artificial ingredients.
from the analysis of bear naked Cereal All Natural Fit Vanilla Almond · echoed in 4 other analysesEnhances the taste of the product without adding calories.
from the analysis of Dr. Kellyann Orange Cream Collagen Cooler · echoed in 2 other analysesEnhances the flavor profile of food products without adding calories.
from the analysis of Lily's 40% CHOCOLATE & MILK, CARAMELIZED & SALTEDEnhances flavor, making the product more palatable.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond ALMONDMILK, UNSWEETENED ORIGINALEnhances flavor but lacks nutritional value.
from the analysis of Daiya CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDSMore 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 a variety of chemical compounds. The lack of transparency in their composition raises concerns about potential allergens and additives.
from the analysis of Jeni's Double DoughA catch-all term that does not disclose what the flavoring is made of.
from the analysis of Optimize Hydration+ Citrus Blast Drink MixAll 165 products with Natural Flavors
+ 141 more products in the Scout app
Where Natural Flavors shows up
- Protein Powders 17 products
- Protein Bars 17 products
- Salty Snacks 15 products
- Yogurt 13 products
- Hydration 10 products
- Energy Drinks 8 products
Higher-scoring picks without Natural Flavors
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Natural Flavors, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.