Nature Identical Flavouring
An umbrella regulatory term, no longer used in EU labeling since 2008 (now grouped under 'flavoring'). Specific compounds are individually safety-assessed.
What it is
A flavoring substance chemically identical to a naturally occurring flavor compound but synthetically produced.
Imparts specific flavor profiles in processed foods at lower cost than natural extraction.
What regulators actually say
"Natural flavor or natural flavoring means the essential oil... whose significant function in food is flavoring rather than nutritional."
"The category 'nature-identical flavouring substance' is no longer applicable... replaced by 'flavouring substance'."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
FDA uses 'artificial flavor' and 'natural flavor' categories (21 CFR 101.22); 'nature-identical' is not an FDA category.
European Union — EFSA
Term abolished by EU Regulation 1334/2008; replaced with 'flavouring substance'.
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