Additive
Smoke flavoring
Condensed wood smoke added for a smoky taste without smoking the food.
Moderate concern · Limited evidence
The EU withdrew approval for smoke flavorings because DNA-damage concerns couldn't be ruled out.
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Reviewed Oct 2, 2026
Evidence and sources
In 2023 EFSA reviewed the eight smoke flavorings sold in the EU and could not rule out concerns about damage to DNA for any of them. The EU withdrew their authorization in 2024. The phase-out ended in July 2026 for most foods and ends in July 2029 for traditionally smoked meat, fish, and cheese. FDA regulates smoke flavoring as a flavor and permits it.
EFSA assessed specific EU products; smoke flavorings sold in the US may be made differently. The amount here isn't declared.
Limited evidence · Presence only; amount unknown · General population
- Smoke flavourings: scientific opinions on the renewal of eight primary products, European Food Safety Authority
- Smoke flavouring renewals: Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2067, European Commission