What Are Artificial Cherry Flavors Made From

Artificial cherry flavoring contains no real cherries.

Nothing beats the taste and aroma of a fresh, ripe cherry. Or does it? According to Eric Shlosser of "Fast Food Nation" fame, our food supply contains a lot less natural and a whole lot of artificial. Artificial cherry flavoring is made up of chemicals as opposed to natural fruit extract. Cherry flavoring is found in candy, medicine and many other products.

Artificial vs. Natural

Shlosser also contends that most flavors can now be chemically replicated in a lab. Artificial flavorings are often favored over natural flavors because they are more shelf-stable; they can be reproduced quite accurately and inexpensively and can withstand processing. They are also readily available and of consistent quality.

History

In 1917, the National Association of Retail Druggists published a recipe for artificial cherry flavoring. Its formulation contained ethyl acetate, ethyl benzoate, oil of persicot, benzoic acid, glycerin and alcohol. The formula was originally published to prove that artificial flavors were inferior to natural and would be a passing fad. Instead, artificial flavors have become more complicated and prevalent over time.

Today

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, flavor companies aren't required to disclose ingredients as long as all of the ingredients are considered "Generally Recognized as Safe." This policy allows flavor companies to protect their secret formulas. According to the Flavorist Toolbox, though, the main chemical in cherry flavoring is benzaldehyde. Benzaldehyde is a chemical compound containing carbon, oxygen and hydrogen. When formulated, it emits a pleasant almond odor.

Safety

The FDA states that artificial flavoring is no less safe, nutritious or desirable than natural flavors. It states that benzaldehyde is safe for human consumption. However, the U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration begs to differ. Its list several known health factors related to benzaldehyde; irritation of the eyes, skin, nose and throat can occur as well as contact dermatitis.

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