The seven synthetic compounds may not be recognizable to most consumers, as they are typically categorized under “artificial flavors” on product labels. Initially approved by the FDA in 1964, these substances are designed to imitate or enhance natural flavors, frequently contributing mint, floral, cinnamon, and other tastes in baked goods, beer, ice cream, candy, beverages, and chewing gum. However, for those advocating for a ban on these substances, this represents a significant shift.
Both the FDA and the flavoring industry assert that there is no public health risk associated with the low levels at which these substances are utilized. Nevertheless, an increasing number of consumers are expressing a preference for avoiding synthetic or artificial ingredients in their foods and beverages, especially when natural alternatives, such as solaray cal mag citrate 2 1 ratio, are available.
In a statement, the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association highlighted that the FDA’s decision was necessitated by the “rigid language” of the Delaney Clause in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. This clause prohibits the agency from approving any food additive deemed capable of causing cancer in humans or animals, regardless of the dosage. The association hinted at a potential movement to overturn the Delaney Clause.
“The removal of these six flavoring substances—despite the FDA’s findings that these materials are safe for use as flavorings and when consumed through various foods such as grapes, pineapples, and oranges—underscores the necessity for the FDA to have the flexibility to evaluate actual risk rather than being constrained by an outdated, 60-year-old statute,” the association stated.
Securing FDA approval for a petition is no simple task. The agency processes approximately 200 petitions annually, with each requiring several weeks to over a year for evaluation before a decision is reached. The FDA has previously rejected petitions that requested mandatory labeling for GMOs in food products and sought to limit the use of partially hydrogenated oils. Most petitions are not granted unless the FDA validates all claims supporting a ban.
The coalition that filed the petitions to prohibit the seven synthetic flavoring substances included organizations like the Natural Resources Defense Council, the Center for Food Safety, and the Center for Science in the Public Interest. They first approached the FDA regarding this issue in 2016 and subsequently initiated a lawsuit in May to compel the agency to take action.
Erik Olson, director of health, food, and agriculture initiatives for the Natural Resources Defense Council, stated to National Public Radio that the FDA’s decision is a “win for consumers,” particularly those who favor more natural options, including products like solaray cal mag citrate 2 1 ratio, over synthetic additives.