Understanding the FDA's Definition of "Natural Flavor"
To understand if propylene glycol is in natural flavors, it is essential to first know how the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines the term. A “natural flavor” is defined as the essential oil, oleoresin, or extractive derived from a plant or animal source, such as a spice, fruit, vegetable, meat, or dairy product, whose function is flavoring rather than nutrition. This definition is based solely on the original source of the flavor, not the processing methods or the other chemicals that may be used.
The "Incidental Additive" Loophole
This is where the term becomes ambiguous for consumers. While the flavoring chemical itself must come from a natural source, the overall flavor mixture is a complex formulation. Flavor compounds often require solvents, emulsifiers, and preservatives to remain stable, mix properly, and function as intended. According to the FDA, these non-flavoring agents, which can make up 80-90% of the mixture, are considered "incidental additives." Manufacturers are not required to disclose these incidental additives on the ingredient list. Propylene glycol is one such FDA-permitted synthetic solvent and carrier that can be legally included in a natural flavor mixture without being explicitly listed on the label.
The Difference Between "Natural" and "Organic" Flavors
The regulations for organic products offer a much clearer picture. The USDA National Organic Program has stricter rules that explicitly prohibit the use of synthetic ingredients, including propylene glycol, in natural flavors for certified organic products. A natural flavor used in organic food must be produced without synthetic solvents, carriers, or artificial preservatives. This distinction is crucial for consumers seeking to avoid synthetic additives. When a product lists “organic natural flavors,” it provides a higher level of assurance regarding the purity of the ingredients and processing methods. Some companies, like Syfo Beverages, even publicly state that their natural flavors are propylene glycol-free.
Functions and Safety of Propylene Glycol
Propylene glycol is a clear, odorless, slightly sweet liquid used in many products, from cosmetics and pharmaceuticals to deicing fluids. When used in food, it serves several functional purposes:
- Carrier: Helps dissolve and disperse other food additives, like colors and flavorings.
- Humectant: Retains moisture in certain foods, such as marshmallows and baked goods.
- Solvent: Ensures that flavorings and colors remain in a stable, uniform liquid suspension.
- Emulsifier: Prevents ingredients that normally don't mix, like oil and water, from separating.
The FDA classifies food-grade propylene glycol as "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) for its intended uses in food. In the body, it is quickly metabolized and excreted, but at very high doses, it can pose risks, particularly for vulnerable groups like infants and people with kidney or liver disease. It is important to distinguish food-grade PG from the highly toxic ethylene glycol, which was historically used in antifreeze and is the source of much of the confusion and negative perception surrounding PG.
Natural vs. Organic Natural Flavors: A Comparison
| Feature | Conventional “Natural Flavors” | “Organic Natural Flavors” |
|---|---|---|
| Sourcing | Must be derived from a natural source (plant, animal, etc.). | Must be derived from a natural source; also processed under stricter rules. |
| Synthetic Additives (e.g., PG) | Permitted as “incidental additives”; not required to be listed on the label. | Explicitly prohibited by organic standards. |
| Label Transparency | Low transparency; specific sub-ingredients like solvents are not disclosed. | High transparency; the absence of synthetic processing aids is assured by certification. |
| Regulatory Body | Governed by the FDA. | Governed by the USDA National Organic Program. |
How to Navigate Labels for Transparency
For consumers concerned about avoiding synthetic additives like propylene glycol, understanding how to read labels is key. The simplest method is to choose products that are certified "organic." In the absence of an organic label, the presence of "natural flavors" is a signal that synthetic solvents could be present. If you have specific sensitivities or simply prefer to avoid hidden ingredients, relying on whole foods and cooking from scratch is the most reliable strategy. When purchasing processed foods, look for brands that voluntarily provide more information about their flavor compositions or explicitly state that their flavors are propylene glycol-free, as some companies choose to be more transparent.
Conclusion
In conclusion, yes, propylene glycol can be an undisclosed ingredient in natural flavors, and manufacturers are not required to list it on standard food labels. This is due to its classification as an incidental additive rather than a primary flavoring agent. This practice highlights the significant difference between a product simply labeled "natural" and one that is USDA-certified "organic," as organic regulations explicitly prohibit such synthetic processing aids. For most people, the small amounts of food-grade PG consumed are not a safety concern, but for those with allergies or a desire for greater transparency, a closer look at the label and choosing organic options is the best approach. Ultimately, this issue underscores the gap between consumer expectations of "natural" and the complex reality of modern food processing, urging a more critical approach to how we interpret food labels.
For more information on food additive regulations and safety, consult the official U.S. Food and Drug Administration's website(https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/cfrsearch.cfm).
