Natural flavours have become a popular alternative amongst health-conscious consumers. They’re extracted from plant and animal foods using heat, so consumers often consider them healthier. That isn’t always the case.
It All Comes Down To Molecular Similarities
Natural flavourings generally don’t have any nutritional value, so they’re not a worthwhile source of vitamins or minerals. They’re chemical compounds that often have the same molecular structure as the artificial flavourings they’re built to replace. Vanillin is a relatively simple flavour that has the same molecular structure regardless of whether it’s taken from vanilla pods or test tubes. Complex flavours such as strawberry need to be replicated using many different chemicals, so creating artificial counterparts can be challenging. As such, natural strawberry flavourant might be superior, but vanilla essence is usually identical no matter the source.
The Importance of Transparency
Just because your flavourant is natural, doesn’t mean its other additives are, too. Reputable flavourists offer full ingredient transparency. A simple perusal of the label will disclose everything you’re about to consume. It’s therefore not enough to choose natural flavourings – you must also choose ethical manufacturers who list all the additives on the bottle. This way, you can easily avoid compounds such as MSG.
Natural is Delectable
Natural flavourings can offer a more authentic flavour profile. Some flavours are highly complex and difficult to mimic, so it’s best to go straight to the source. Legitimate foods can frequently achieve delicious nuances and are often more concentrated than their artificial counterparts. Sometimes, Mother Nature does it best.
