Fruitsmaken

Fruitsmaken is a term used to describe the characteristic sensory impression of fruit in foods and beverages. It covers both the perception of taste and aroma that resembles fruit as well as the aftertaste. In Dutch and in many other languages, it is used on product labels to indicate a fruity flavor profile.

In the food industry, fruitsmaken can be achieved through natural flavorings, artificial flavorings, or nature-identical compounds. Natural flavorings are derived from fruit materials through extraction or distillation. Artificial flavorings are chemically synthesized, often to imitate a specific fruit's profile, while nature-identical flavors replicate the same compounds found in nature.

Fruity flavors are largely based on volatile compounds such as esters (for example isoamyl acetate for banana, ethyl butyrate for pineapple) and other aldehydes, alcohols, and terpenes. The combination of these compounds with sweetness and acidity creates the fruity impression.

Common applications include candy, soft drinks, yogurt, ice cream, bakery fillings, and confectionery. Flavorings may be used alone or in blends to reproduce or enhance the sense of a particular fruit.

Regulation and safety: In the European Union, flavorings are subject to safety assessments and labeling rules. Natural flavors must be derived from fruit materials; artificial and nature-identical flavors are regulated as well and must not misrepresent their origin. Products may be labeled with terms such as fruitsmaken to indicate a fruity profile.

See also: Flavor, Aroma compound, Natural flavor, Food flavoring.