Natural Flavor

Flavoring Agent

Natural Flavor at a glance

Category
Flavoring Agent
Also called
Natural Flavors, Natural Flavour, Natural Flavours, Natural Flavoring, Natural Flavouring
Commonly found in
Soft drinks, Snack foods, Confectionery, Processed meats
Diets reviewed
26 diets

What is Natural Flavor?

Natural flavors are complex mixtures created by flavorists to enhance the taste and aroma of food products. These can be derived from natural sources such as fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, and other plant or animal materials. They are used extensively in food manufacturing to impart specific flavors to a wide range of products. However, the specific ingredients and processes used to create these flavors are often proprietary, leading to potential concerns about allergens or dietary restrictions.

Also known as:

Natural FlavorsNatural FlavourNatural FlavoursNatural FlavoringNatural FlavouringNatural and Artificial FlavorNatural and Artificial FlavourNatural & Artificial FlavorNatural & Artificial FlavourNatural & Artificial Flavo

Diet Compatibility

Corn FreeCaution

Flavors and flavoring are broadly defined compounds used to impart taste and may include corn-derived carriers or solvents. Please contact the manufacturer for details.

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Sesame FreeCaution

Flavors and flavoring may contain sesame. We recommend you contact the manufacturer for more information.

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VeganCaution

Natural flavors can include both animal and plant sources. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

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PescatarianCaution

Natural flavors can include both animal and plant sources. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer to confirm.

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VegetarianCaution

Natural flavors can include both animal and plant sources. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

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Low FODMAPCaution

Natural flavors in savory foods, especially those containing meat, fish or poultry, may contain high FODMAP ingredients like garlic or onion. Natural flavors in other foods are probably low FODMAP. Natural flavors present in quantities less than 2% of the total product are unlikely to cause IBS symptoms.

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Alpha-Gal FriendlyCaution

Natural flavors can include both animal and plant sources and may contain alpha-gal if derived from mammals. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

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Barley FreeCaution

Flavors and flavoring may contain barley. We recommend you contact the manufacturer for more information.

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Garlic FreeCaution

Flavors and flavoring may contain onion. We recommend you contact the manufacturer for more information.

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Onion FreeCaution

Flavors and flavoring may contain onion. We recommend you contact the manufacturer for more information.

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Rye FreeCaution

Flavors and flavoring may contain rye. We recommend you contact the manufacturer for more information.

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Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

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Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

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Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

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GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

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Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

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Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

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Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

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Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

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Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

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Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

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Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

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Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

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Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

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Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

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Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

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Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Natural Flavor

People may avoid natural flavors due to dietary restrictions, allergies, or ethical concerns. For individuals with corn allergies or sensitivities, natural flavors can be problematic because they might contain or be processed with corn-derived carriers or solvents. This ambiguity often necessitates contacting manufacturers for specific ingredient verification. Additionally, some consumers prefer to avoid natural flavors due to a preference for whole, minimally processed foods or concerns about the source or processing of the flavor compounds.

Potential Reactions

  • Allergic reactions
  • Sensitivity to corn derivatives

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Natural Flavor

Browse products that match your diet.

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Related to Natural Flavor

Other ingredients people often check alongside Natural Flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

  • Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
  • Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
  • Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
  • Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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