Still don’t have time? Scroll down to the bottom for a quick summary.
If you’re like me and raised an eyebrow the first time you saw “Natural Flavors” on a label, you’re not alone.
I don’t know about you, but the older I get the more aware I become about what I put in my body.
Here’s a deep dive into what this single ingredient means and what you can do to protect yourself and the ones you love against potentially harmful substances…
_____
WHAT IS “NATURAL FLAVORS”?
The term “natural flavors” is a legally vague label that can hide dozens — even hundreds — of individual chemical ingredients.
Under FDA regulations, “natural flavors” can refer to any flavoring substance derived from a natural source — such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, meat, seafood, poultry, dairy, or fermentation.
However, once extracted, these compounds can be highly processed and are often combined with:
• Solvents
• Preservatives
• Emulsifiers
• Carriers
• Stabilizers
These additional components do not have to be listed individually on food labels.
_____
HOW MANY INGREDIENTS?!
You read correctly.
Every time you see “Natural flavors” on the label, it can range between between 50–100+ different substances.
Some food flavorings have been known to contain up to 200 individual chemicals, depending on complexity.
To give an example…natural vanilla flavor may include compounds like vanillin, glycerin, propylene glycol, and even…
(drum roll please)
CASTOREUM!!! (i .e. beaver glands)
It’s rare now and was more common in the past. But what’s stopping companies from doing it again?
⸻
WHY DOES THIS MATTER?
Aside from not knowing whether I’m eating beaver butt or not, here are some other reasons why some would consider avoiding foods with “Natural flavors”…
Those with Allergies, sensitivities, or dietary restrictions (like vegan/vegetarian) may not know what they’re consuming.
The term “natural” doesn’t necessarily mean healthy or minimally processed — it just refers to the origin of the ingredient (I guess beaver parts are considered natural?).
⸻
WHAT YOU CAN DO…
If you want to avoid hidden these ingredients:
Look for products that say “no natural or artificial flavors”.
Choose foods labeled “flavored with whole food ingredients” or “100% organic” (which restricts flavoring additives more tightly).
If you really want to know what’s in your “natural flavors”, you can always contact the manufacturer — they’re legally required to disclose what’s in the “natural flavor” if you ask (especially if you have allergies).
_____
WHAT TO LOOK FOR…
When dealing with processed foods, here are three things to look out for when you see “Natural Flavor” on the label…
Phrases: Phrases like…”Contains natural flavors”, “Naturally flavored” or “Fruit flavored” without being specific.
Organic: Certified Organic products (especially USDA Organic) can only use natural flavors that meet organic standards, limiting hidden chemicals.
Transparency: Products that specify the source, like “flavored with lemon oil”, “Spiced with real cinnamon” or “Vanilla extract” vs “natural vanilla flavor” all get a green light and are safe for consumption.
⸻
SUMMARY AND TAKE AWAY:
AVOID THESE…
NATURAL/NATURALLY FLAVORING
When you see “Natural flavors” on a label, it could mean 100’s of unknown ingredients, containing possible allergens, solvents, or animal products/byproducts if you’re vegan/vegetarian.
NATURAL FRUIT FLAVOR
This is likely code for synthetic or lab-made ingredients and not actually fruit.
NATURAL SMOKE/BUTTER FLAVOR
Often means synthetic chemicals that have nothing related to smoked or buttered ingredients.
CHOOSE THESE…
“Spiced with [actual spice]”
“Flavored with [real food name]”
“No natural or artificial flavors”
“Organic flavors” (with USDA Organic seal)
WHEN IN DOUBT, JUST ASK
If you’re ever curious or not sure, again…you can always call the company and ask them.
They’re required by law to explain what’s in the “natural flavor” if you tell them you have an allergy to certain foods.
You can ask…
• “What’s included in the natural flavors?”
• “Are there any carriers, preservatives, or allergens?”
• “Is this flavor derived from animal or plant sources?”
