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Natural Flavors is permitted by the US FDA. Several countries restrict, warning-label, or have reviewed it for safety concerns. The US has more lenient additive rules than the EU, UK, Canada, and Japan, which is why this ingredient remains widely used here.
The term itself presents no specific health risk, but the lack of transparency is a significant concern for consumers with allergies, dietary restrictions, or sensitivities. 'Natural flavors' may contain allergens (such as shellfish, wheat, or soy derivatives), animal-derived ingredients (problematic for vegans), or added glutamates that some people wish to avoid. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has noted that 'natural flavors' is the fourth most common ingredient on food labels, yet consumers have no right to know what specific compounds are included.
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