In which products can Natural Meat Flavors be applied?

Natural meat flavors have gained traction in the food industry due to their ability to deliver unique taste and sensory quality to products without altering their composition entirely. Used across various categories, these flavors are developed to meet market demands for healthier and more functional alternatives. In this article, we will explore what these flavors are, their applications, benefits in different products, and how BRF Ingredients operates in this sector.

Topics:

• ● What are natural meat flavors and how are they produced?
• ● Product categories that use natural meat flavors and their benefits for each type
• ● Why are natural meat flavors essential in the food industry?
• ● How does BRF Ingredients work with its portfolio of natural meat flavors

What are natural meat flavors and how are they produced?

Natural meat flavors, classified as food additives by official regulatory agencies, are compounds extracted from natural raw materials, such as animal or plant-based proteins, that impart flavor and aroma to food products.

According to the Ministry of Health - Sanitary Surveillance Secretariat, a food additive is defined as any ingredient intentionally added to food without the purpose of nutrition, aiming to modify physical, chemical, biological, or sensory characteristics.

Enzymatic hydrolysis is a biotechnological method that utilizes specific enzymes to break down proteins and release flavor precursors, enhancing taste in flavor formulations. On the other hand, thermal processes simulate the chemical reactions that occur during food cooking, creating complex and rich flavor notes.

Through these techniques, it is possible to ensure the release of compounds that replicate the characteristic flavors of meat, offering a versatile and functional alternative for the food industry.

Product categories that use natural meat flavors and their benefits for each type

Developed to meet consumers' sensory demands, these compounds are widely used in formulations that aim to enhance final product quality and create more appealing gastronomic experiences.

Their applications range from processed foods to specialized diets, highlighting their functional and technical versatility, such as:

Processed meats: in products like sausages, frankfurters, and mortadellas, natural meat flavors enhance the characteristic taste of the product. They help preserve the sensory identity, even in large-scale industrial processes, ensuring that consumers experience the expected flavor.

Biscuits: used to create intense and attractive flavor notes, they add layers of taste, making biscuits more desirable and unique in the market.

Broths and soups: these processed foods heavily rely on natural flavors to replicate the freshness and intensity of homemade preparations. They are essential for creating a rich taste that appeals to consumers and offers convenience in preparation.

Seasonings and sauces: Ready-to-eat products utilize natural meat flavors to enhance complexity and depth of flavor. This ensures convenience without compromising sensory quality

Noodles: Natural meat flavors play a crucial role in simulating the authentic taste of meat in products that do not contain animal protein in their formulation.

Why are natural meat flavors essential in the food industry?

In Brazil, the regulation of food additives, including natural meat flavors, follows the criteria established by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa).

These regulations align with regional guidelines from Mercosur and are backed by recommendations from international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). These regulatory standards ensure safety and consistency in the use of these compounds.

The application of natural meat flavors is essential to meet the growing consumer demand for foods with authentic sensory profiles, high quality, and fresher options. These flavors enhance the taste characteristics of products, enabling the industry to deliver consistent sensory experiences, even in processed foods.

Furthermore, they help differentiate products in a highly competitive market by adding sensory value and allowing brands to meet consumer expectations. Natural meat flavors stand out by offering authentic flavors and high-quality formulations that make products more appealing and versatile.

Another crucial aspect is their versatility, as natural meat flavors can be applied to a wide variety of foods, from snacks and seasonings to soups and sauces. Studies indicate that consumers tend to prefer tastier and well-balanced products, making natural flavors a strategic choice for the food industry.

How does BRF Ingredients work with its portfolio of natural meat flavors

The NatSense natural flavors developed by BRF Ingredients offer versatile and practical options for various food applications. See below:

Among the portfolio's options, the Natural Chicken Flavor with Salt stands out for its ability to preserve flavor during processing, ensuring better consistency in the final product, optimizing the sensory profile, and contributing to a positive eating experience.

Another highlighted solution in the portfolio is the Natural Mixed Meat Flavor, designed to enhance the taste of preparations that combine different types of meat. Formulated with subtle notes of garlic and onion, this liquid flavor is ideal for processed meats, delivering a well-balanced and distinctive sensory profile.

The NatSense Flavor is designed to meet the demand for healthier foods, assisting in sodium reduction without compromising taste. Used in processed meats and other meat-based products, it provides a functional alternative to meet consumer expectations.

Final considerations

The use of natural meat flavors in food formulations offers significant advantages, addressing both distinctive sensory experiences and the need for technological solutions to enhance food quality.

By incorporating these compounds, industries can add value to their products, achieve market differentiation, and meet the expectations of increasingly discerning consumers regarding ingredient formulations.

To facilitate application and ensure excellent results, BRF Ingredients provides a diverse portfolio of natural meat flavors, developed with high technology and full traceability. With applications ranging from processed meats to noodles and ready meals, these products ensure consistency, practicality, and superior sensory performance for the food industry.

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