Natural vs. Artificial Flavors: Why We Don’t Use Either

When most people see the term “natural flavors” on a label, they assume it’s healthier than “artificial flavors.” Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. In fact, both types of flavoring can be remarkably similar in their chemical structure—and both can carry potential risks for your health, especially your gut microbiome.

What’s the Difference?

According to the FDA, the only real difference between natural and artificial flavors is the original source of the compound. Natural flavors must be derived from a plant or animal source, while artificial flavors are synthesized in a lab. But here’s the catch:

• Both may contain identical chemical compounds once isolated and refined
• Both can include hundreds of hidden additives like solvents, emulsifiers, and preservatives
• Neither offers actual nutritional value or functional benefits

In other words, “natural” doesn’t always mean better—it just sounds better on a label.

How Flavors May Harm the Gut

Recent research suggests that artificial and natural flavor additives may negatively impact the gut microbiome—the trillions of bacteria and microorganisms that play a vital role in digestion, immunity, and mental health.

Some studies have linked food additives, including flavoring agents, to:

• Disruption of microbial diversity
• Increased intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”)
• Inflammation and immune system dysregulation
• Impaired digestion and nutrient absorption

One paper published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition found that certain common food additives may contribute to gut dysbiosis, a condition linked to chronic disease, allergies, and even mood disorders.

Read the study here

Why We Avoid All Added Flavors

At our core, we believe your body deserves clean, functional, and transparent ingredients. That’s why our products are 100% free from both natural and artificial flavors. Instead, we let real food ingredients—and nature—speak for themselves.

Here’s what we do instead:

• Use whole-food extracts and real spices for flavor
• Rely on natural sweetness from fruit powders (not flavor-enhanced sweeteners)
• Maintain full transparency—no hidden “flavoring agents” or “proprietary blends”

We believe that when you avoid unnecessary additives, you make room for real nourishment—and support a healthier microbiome, from the inside out.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s called “natural” or “artificial,” flavoring is often just a marketing tool. It’s time we move beyond the label and choose products made with genuine, whole ingredients—not lab-created taste enhancers.

That’s why every product we make is 100% flavoring-free. Real food, real function, real results.