Have you ever noticed on the back of a label the words “natural flavors”? It’s become common for brands all across America to use them, but what are they? Are they actually natural?

What Are Natural Flavors?

Natural flavors are derived from the aroma or flavor chemicals of plants or animal sources, such as fruits, meats, spices, and herbs. Although the original source of a natural flavor must come from plant or animal material, it can be highly processed and may contain up to 100 different chemicals. This is a common ingredient found in many products, mostly in processed foods like cookies, crackers, ice cream, and popcorn. However, they can also be found in health supplements like protein powder, pre-workout drinks, and gummies. Their main purpose is to make things taste better or taste more like a desired flavor. Natural flavors walk the line between natural and not-so-natural, often leaving consumers confused.

The Role of Natural Flavors in Our Food 

Companies in the food industry often rely on natural flavors to meet consumer demand for delicious and flavorful food items. These flavors play an important role in creating tasty, palatable food that gets you hooked and wanting more each time. They’re in food and beverages we consume every day, from soda to hydration drinks, to all packaged foods. But we don’t need them! There is no need to consistently enhance the flavors of food to make it taste better for people. This is a one-way ticket to get people hooked and wanting more, which eventually leads to bad health outcomes.

Natural Flavors vs. Artificial Flavors: What’s the Difference?

The FDA defines “natural flavors” as chemical flavor compounds extracted directly from plants, animals, or plant and animal products as found in nature. Artificial flavors are compounds not extracted from nature, but rather reproduced in a lab. Consumers often view natural flavors as healthier due to their misleading labels and natural origins, even though they are highly processed. On the other hand, artificial flavors are generally viewed with suspicion, despite being chemically identical to the natural flavors they mimic.

The Health Implications of Natural Flavors 

Natural flavors can sometimes be natural, but most of the time they are highly processed and inflammatory, loaded with extra additives that we just don’t need. In many cases, natural flavors are just as harmful as artificial flavors in terms of chemical composition. We believe natural flavors should be avoided as often as possible. We can do this by eating a whole-food diet rich in fruits and vegetables, healthy carbs, and lean meats, high in protein. If you do this and make your diet 90% whole foods, you can largely avoid natural and artificial flavors. Remember, the fewer chemicals you consume, the better!

The Push for Clean Labels 

There’s been more awareness than ever before about ingredients, unwanted additives, and harsh chemicals being used in our food. I call it the push for clean labels. When it comes to ingredients, less is better. Nobody likes looking at a nutritional label on ice cream, for example, and instead of seeing cream, sugar, and salt, you find 100 different ingredients that are impossible to pronounce.

This is unacceptable. More and more people want to see clean labels with simple ingredients we all know and trust. There are many great brands out there that make your favorite snacks using real ingredients and limiting the unhealthy ones, so remember, next time you’re in the grocery store, pay attention, know your labels, and know your ingredients so you can make the right decision for you and your family.

The Eabha Organics Difference 

Eabha Organics is committed to delivering high-quality supplements, free of natural and artificial flavors, unwanted chemicals, and harsh additives. We believe that if you take a supplement to improve your health, you should be doing just that. So many companies take the path of using harsh ingredients to cut corners and make more profit. Eabha thinks differently. We believe less is better and we do everything we can to deliver high-quality products.

At Eabha Organics, we believe we can be an example to other companies that are up and coming,  showing that you can make delicious products with real ingredients. We believe we can steer people away from giant corporations that don’t care about your health and will do anything to make more money. All of our products are made without harsh chemicals. Alla Luna Pre-Workout is our premier energy drink, with no artificial or natural flavors, or fake additives and sugars, just real ingredients. The same goes for our Grass-Fed Collagen.

Looking to up your supplement game? Look no further than Eabha Organics. Shop today and enjoy real supplements made with real ingredients.