WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL FLAVOUR?

Flavourings in teas and other products give the consumer a lot more variety of options from which to choose. At The Naked Leaf, we offer a slection of teas that have 'Natural Flavour" as an added ingredient.

We are often asked what "natural flavour" means, and what is the difference between that and an artificial flavour.

A natural flavouring is a flavouring substance or extract derived from a natural source, such as a fruit or vegetable. Artificial flavoring is a flavoring substance or extract made from chemically synthesized compounds that are meant to mimic the flavor of natural ingredients. Generally, natural flavors are considered more desirable than artificial flavors, as they have a perceived higher quality and authenticity. Natural flavors are typically more expensive to produce than artificial flavors, as they require the extraction of flavor compounds from actual food sources. Artificial flavors however, are often more potent than natural flavors, as they are not limited in concentration or complexity.

For example, our BLACK CURRANT tea blend has actual currants as the second ingredient in the blend, immediately after tea. However, if you were to remove the berries and steep them on there own, the black currant flavour that you are looking for would be incredible mild slightly bitter and not very interesting. To bring out the flavour that you are actually after, a flavour of black currant has to be added.