Flavor Enhancers

Definition

Flavor enhancers are substances added to food to enhance or intensify its taste or smell without contributing a flavor of their own.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Flavor enhancers are compounds that facilitate the perception of taste, often by increasing the sensitivity of taste receptors to flavors already present in a food product. These additives can modify or improve the flavor profile by acting on the chemical pathways involved in taste and smell.

Benefits

• Improve the taste of low-sodium or reduced-calorie foods.
• Enhance the flavor experience without the need for additional salt or sugar.
• Can make healthier food options more palatable.

Examples

• Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
• Disodium guanylate
• Disodium inosinate
• Yeast extract

Additional Information

• side effects: Some people may experience adverse reactions like headaches or nausea from certain flavor enhancers, such as MSG.

Related Terms

• Food Additives
• Preservatives
• MSG
• Artificial Flavors

References

• Use of Flavor Enhancers in the Food Industry
• The safety and regulatory aspects of flavor enhancer usage