Enhancer

Flavour enhancers are substances added to food to intensify its existing flavour and aroma. They can be naturally occurring compounds found in foods like cheese and mushrooms, or they can be produced industrially through chemical synthesis or fermentation processes. Their primary role is to boost the palatability of food products.

Flavour enhancers are used to make food taste more appealing, often by intensifying savoury (umami) notes. They are commonly found in processed foods such as ready meals, soups, sauces, snacks, and seasonings. Their use helps to create a more consistent and desirable flavour profile in manufactured food products.

Flavour enhancers like monosodium glutamate (MSG) are authorised food additives in Great Britain and are listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. While some individuals report sensitivity to MSG, scientific reviews generally conclude that it is safe for the general population at typical consumption levels. Evidence for adverse effects in the general population at normal intake levels is not conclusive.