Enhancer
'Enhancer' on a label is non-specific and provides no information about the actual substance used. Flavor enhancers commonly include MSG (E621), 5'-ribonucleotides (E627/E631/E635), yeast extract; some are linked to sensitivity reactions in a minority of consumers.
What it is
Generic umbrella label that may refer to flavor enhancers, color enhancers, or texture enhancers — function class rather than a specific substance.
Generic functional category covering flavor/color/texture-boosting additives.
Why it's flagged
- Common enhancers (MSG, ribonucleotides) cause sensitivity reactions in a minority of consumers
What regulators actually say
"Food and color additives must be listed by their common or usual name on the ingredient label."
"Food additives must be designated by the name of their category followed by their specific name or E number."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
FDA requires the specific name/E-number of the additive on the ingredient list; 'enhancer' alone is non-compliant
European Union — EFSA
EU labeling rules require the functional class plus the specific additive name
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