Is it vegan? Ingredients
Are natural flavours vegan?
Quick answer: It depends. “Natural flavours” can legally come from plants or from animals such as meat, dairy, eggs or seafood, and the label does not have to say which.
Also called: natural flavor, natural flavouring, natural flavourings, flavouring
The details
In the US, the FDA defines natural flavour as an essential oil, extract or similar product derived from spices, fruit, vegetables, herbs or other plant material — or from meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof (21 CFR 101.22).
The Vegetarian Resource Group notes that it is basically impossible to tell what natural flavours contain unless the company specifies it. In the EU and UK, flavourings must still declare allergens such as milk, eggs and fish, which helps, but other animal sources such as meat would not be flagged.
What to look for on the label
- natural flavo(u)r(s)
- flavouring
- allergens such as milk or egg in bold (UK/EU)
Where it’s found
- Crisps and snacks
- Soft drinks and sweets
- Plant-based and processed foods
Vegan alternatives
- Products with a vegan logo
- Contact the manufacturer
Frequently asked questions
Are natural flavours vegan?
It depends. “Natural flavours” can legally come from plants or from animals such as meat, dairy, eggs or seafood, and the label does not have to say which.
Are natural flavours vegan in vegan-certified foods?
Yes. Certified vegan products must use flavourings free from animal ingredients.
Sources
- 21 CFR 101.22 — definition of natural flavor — US Electronic Code of Federal Regulations
- Ingredient questions and answers — The Vegetarian Resource Group
- Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on food information to consumers (allergen labelling, Annex II) — EUR-Lex
Checked on 31 October 2026. Ingredients and recipes change, and the same product can differ between countries — always check the current label. This page is general information, not allergy or medical advice.