Don’t let the myths that go along with flavor safety get to your head! Instead, educate yourself. Luckily for you, we’ve made it easy for you to do that. Below is an explanation of the myths vs. facts of flavor safety. Hopefully, this content can debunk all the myths you’ve heard about added flavors and their safety.
Myth: Artificial Flavors Are Worse Than Natural Flavors
Truthfully, when you break it down, there aren’t many differences between natural flavors and artificial flavors—especially when it comes to their nutrition. Artificial flavors are synthesized in a lab, and natural flavors are derived from a plant or animal source. Aside from this difference, the two are essentially composed of the same molecules, so their safety is the same.
Fact: An Expert Panel Determines Flavor Safety
An independent expert panel determines flavor safety. This panel falls under the FEMA Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) program. This panel is made up of scientific and medical professionals who are separate from the food industry and who can look at flavors’ safety in an unbiased manner.
Myth: Because Natural Flavors Are “Natural,” They’re Safer To Consume
News flash! The term “natural” has no official definition and allows room for other chemicals and additives to be added to the food to create the perfect flavor. With this being the case, it’s important to be aware of the hidden additives present in the ingredients of the flavor—especially since it’s very unlikely to be just one ingredient. The same goes for artificial flavors, so just be cautious of what you’re consuming.
Fact: Artificial Flavor Ingredients Aren’t Harmful To Your Health
People generally think artificial flavoring is worse for you, but it’s not. As we stated above, there’s really no difference or higher risk of harm if you consume artificial flavoring compared to natural flavoring. Consuming an unhealthy abundance of either isn’t recommended, but it’s not safer to eat one instead of the other.
Hopefully, getting a rundown of these points has given you a better understanding of the myths vs. facts of flavor safety. These points allow you to separate what you thought you knew from the facts. Now that you know that artificial flavors are safe to consume, you’re ready to get your newest recipe tasting just right! If you’re in search of the perfect flavor concentrates for beverages or the best flavors to have on hand in your pantry, visit our website here at Get Suckered for numerous options!