Natural Living: Natural & Artificial Flavors

Have you ever wondered what that ingredient called "natural flavor" is on your food labels?  Did you know that “natural flavor” is the fourth most common ingredient listed in more than 80,000 foods? In EWG’s Food Scores, “natural flavor” finds its way into more than a fifth of that roster of 80,000 foods, with only salt, water and sugar mentioned more frequently on food labels. 

But, what is it? A "natural flavor" can be derived from either plant of animal material.  "Artificial flavors" are derived from a lab, however, artificial and natural flavors can possess the same chemical structures. Eeks!

"The Food and Drug Administration defines natural flavors as substances derived from animals or plants and artificial flavors are those that are not. An artificial flavor must be comprised of one of the nearly 700 FDA-allowed flavoring chemicals or food additives categorized as “generally recognized as safe,” or any of 2000 other chemicals not directly regulated by FDA but sanctioned for use by an industry group, the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association of the United States. Most of these chemicals exist as natural flavors or can be extracted from them." stated David Andrews, EWG Senior Scientist. 

Here's a few things that you should know...

• Natural flavors can be found in candy, chocolate, flavored waters, herbal teas, juices, granola bars, protein/green drinks, cheese, cereals, gum, mints, etc. 
• Natural flavors can contain more chemicals than artificial flavors
• The FDA has not fully defined what “natural” means. Foods labeled “natural” can be genetically modified
• Chemicals, solvents, emulsifiers do not have to be identified under the natural heading
• Certified organic foods are required to not use synthetic solvents, preservatives or carriers in their natural flavoring 

So, what kinds of flavors should you look for? I plan to always use my spice rack, as much as possible! You can read more on EWG's website. 

Check out our blog for more DIY ideas and natural ways of living.