FLAVOURS
Definitions across the world
Flavouring regulations vary across different regions and countries, and the classification of flavouring substances can have different terminologies depending on the regulatory body and local laws
European Union – Regulation EC 1334/2008
Flavouring substances: Defined chemical compounds with flavouring properties. Include substances obtained from natural materials or synthesized
Natural flavourings: Flavouring substances derived from natural sources: plants, animals, or microorganisms using physical, enzymatic, or microbiological processes
Non-natural flavourings: These include synthetic flavourings but are no longer specifically labeled as « artificial » or « nature-identical. » Any flavourings not derived from natural sources must be labeled simply as « flavourings »
United States – FDA, 21 CFR 101.22
Natural flavours: Derived from natural sources: plants, animals, or fermentation products, using methods like heating or enzymatic processes
Artificial flavours: Substances created synthetically, not derived from natural sources, even if they mimic natural flavour components
Flavour enhancers: Separate category for substances like monosodium glutamate (MSG) that enhance but do not primarily contribute to flavour
Japan
Natural flavours: Regulated similarly to the U.S. and EU (natural flavours being substances derived from natural sources)
Artificial flavours: Synthetic flavouring agents that do not occur in nature. Japan has strict guidelines on labelling, similar to the U.S
Natural-identical flavours: Japan recognizes this category where substances are chemically identical to natural compounds but synthesized
Vanillin from vanilla pods is a natural flavouring substance in EU, US and Japan
Vanillin from chemical or biochemical synthesis is a Flavouring substance in EU, artificial flavouring in US and nature-identical flavouring in Japan
Ethyl vanillin is a flavouring substance in EU, artificial flavouring in US and Japan
Globally, the primary categories of flavouring substances are natural and artificial. The term nature-identical, while no longer used in the EU, persists in countries like India and Russia