Liquid flavours are products in which flavouring components are dissolved in liquid carriers. The appropriate selection of a carrier has a significant impact on the technological suitability and the long-term stability of the flavour in the finished product.
Glycol-Based Liquid Flavours
The most commonly used liquid flavours on the market today are glycol-based flavours, in which the carrier is 1,2-propylene glycol (E1520) or triacetin (E1518).
These flavours are recommended for a wide range of applications; however, they are particularly suitable for products subjected to thermal processing (boiling point of propylene glycol: 198.5°C, triacetin: 258°C).
Current regulations limit the amount of 1,2-propylene glycol and triacetin permitted in the finished product. Therefore, these flavours should be used in accordance with regulations – (EC) No 1334/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on flavourings and certain food ingredients with flavouring properties for use in and on foods, as well as (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on food additives.
Due to the good solubility of propylene glycol and triacetin in water, this group of flavours is highly versatile. They are suitable for all products that contain water in their final form or where water is used during the production process.
Ethanol-Based Liquid Flavours
The most traditional group of flavours are ethanol-based flavours, where the carrier is rectified spirit. Alcohol is a highly versatile carrier that allows the creation of particularly complex flavour compositions. Moreover, it does not suppress sensory impressions but can actually enhance them.
Ethanol-based flavours are recommended both for products subjected to short-term thermal processing and those not undergoing heat treatment (boiling point of ethanol: 78.3°C). They are particularly suitable for creams, dairy products, ice cream, fillings for various types of products, beverages and many other applications.
The ethyl alcohol contained in flavours, when used in food products or non-alcoholic beverages, is exempt from excise duty. Therefore, purchasing and using ethanol-based flavours for these purposes does not require any additional formalities.
A limitation of this group of flavours is their lower stability in finished products compared to glycol-based flavours. They are particularly suitable for products with shorter shelf lives and for artisan-made products. Their higher volatility is an advantage in such applications, as it creates immediate and more pronounced sensory impressions.
Oil-Based Liquid Flavours
Our offer also includes oil-based flavours, in which the carrier is high-quality rapeseed oil.
They are used in products where water cannot be applied due to the composition and production technology – such as various high-fat masses and durable bakery products (biscuits, fruitcakes, etc.).
Research conducted at the Department of Food Commodity Science of the Poznań University of Economics and Business has shown that these flavours demonstrate particularly high stability in confectionery products (boiling point of oil: 200–220°C).
The main limitation of this group is a more restricted flavour range, as only raw materials soluble in oil can be used in their production. This carrier is also associated with a shorter shelf life compared to ethanol- and glycol-based flavours.
Our complete offer is available in our liquid food flavour catalogue or directly from one of our consultants.
Upon request, we provide quality specifications containing information on composition, intended use, recommended dosage and application conditions. We also offer product samples and prepare individual commercial offers tailored to customer requirements.
All offered flavours are produced in accordance with applicable food safety regulations, including:
the Act of 25 August 2006 on Food Safety and Nutrition;
Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on flavourings;
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on food additives.
If you require a flavour with a specific taste profile or dedicated application, we can prepare solutions tailored to individual customer requirements.
We invite you to contact us!
