Vegetable Extract
Also known as: vegetable extracts
'Vegetable extract' is a generic ingredient that may include flavor enhancers (free glutamates), nitrate-rich extracts, or coloring extracts depending on the source. Lack of specificity limits health assessment, and some preparations function as natural flavor enhancers similar to MSG.
What it is
Generic umbrella term for concentrated extracts derived from one or more vegetables, used for flavor or color.
Flavoring or coloring agent.
Why it's flagged
- May supply free glutamates from hydrolysis, contributing to umami/sodium load
What regulators actually say
"Ingredients shall be listed by common or usual name in descending order of predominance by weight."
"Glutamate also occurs naturally in many foods including tomatoes and is sometimes added as hydrolyzed protein or yeast extract."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Source must be declarable under labeling rules (21 CFR 101.4)
European Union — EFSA
Identity required under Regulation 1169/2011
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