Artificial Flavors
AdditiveOverview
Synthetic compounds designed to mimic natural flavors, created through chemical processes to provide specific taste profiles at lower cost than natural alternatives.
301,144
Products contain this
6,109
Ingredient variations
Common forms
Artificial flavor, vanillin, synthetic flavor compounds
Function
Enhance or create specific flavors in processed foods, mask undesirable tastes from processing, maintain consistent flavor profiles across batches, and reduce production costs.
Sources
Chemically synthesized in laboratories from petroleum derivatives, coal tar, or other organic compounds through processes like esterification, condensation, or fermentation of synthetic precursors.
Health Considerations
Generally considered safe at approved levels but may cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals. Some studies suggest potential links to hyperactivity in children, though evidence remains inconclusive.
Regulatory
FDA approved as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) when used within specified limits. Must be labeled as "artificial flavor" on ingredient lists. Subject to ongoing safety reviews.
Common Variations (50 total)
Products Containing Artificial Flavors
Showing 12 of 301,144 products, sorted by processing level