When developing food and beverage products, understanding the regulatory classifications of clean-label flavours is essential for compliance, cost control and label positioning. Terms such as FTNF, Natural ‘X’ Flavouring (95/5) and WONF are widely used in the flavour industry, but many product developers and brand owners are unsure what they actually mean when it comes to trying to achieve that all-important clean-label product.
In this guide, we explain the differences between our range of FTNF, Natural ‘X’ Flavouring, WONF and Natural Flavourings, helping you to choose the right option for your product formulation and labelling strategy.
What Is FTNF (From The Named Fruit)?
FTNF (From The Named Fruit) refers to flavouring that is 100% derived from the named source.
For example:
Orange flavour derived entirely from oranges
Lemon flavour made only from lemon juice, essential oils, or extracts
Key characteristics of FTNF
100% from the named fruit or source
No additional flavouring materials used
Considered the most authentic flavour classification
Often expensive due to raw material sourcing
Typically requires higher dosage levels to achieve strong flavour impact
FTNF is often used in premium, clean-label food and beverage products, where brands want to emphasise authenticity and natural sourcing.
What Is Natural ‘X’ Flavouring (95/5 Rule)?
A Natural ‘X’ Flavouring (95/5) classification means that at least 95% of the flavour components come from the named source (‘X’).
The remaining up to 5% can come from other natural sources, provided the final flavour remains clearly recognisable as the named ingredient.
Example
A strawberry flavour where 95% of the flavouring components originate from strawberries.
Key benefits
Strong alignment with the named fruit or ingredient
Supports clear marketing claims
Maintains a high level of authenticity
However, similar to FTNF, these flavours can be relatively expensive and may require higher dosage levels in formulations.
What Is Natural ‘X’ Flavouring With Other Natural Flavours (WONF)?
WONF (With Other Natural Flavours) allows greater flexibility in flavour formulation.
Under this classification:
Between 1% and 94.9% of the flavour must come from the named source
Other natural flavouring ingredients can be used
The overall flavour must still be clearly recognisable as the named ingredient
Why WONF is widely used
WONF offers a balance between:
Clean-label appeal
Cost efficiency
Flavour intensity
Formulation flexibility
Because of this balance, WONF is one of the most commonly used classifications in commercial food and beverage products.
Important packaging consideration
To include a pictorial representation of a fruit on packaging, a minimum of 51% FTNF is typically required.
What Is a Natural Flavour?
A Natural Flavour classification applies when all raw materials used are natural flavouring preparations and/or natural flavouring substances.
Unlike the other categories, there is no requirement for a specific named source.
Advantages of natural flavours
Maximum creativity in flavour design
Greater cost control
Strong flavour impact possible
Suitable for complex flavour profiles
However, because no specific ingredient source is required, brands cannot make claims referencing a particular fruit or ingredient unless the formulation meets FTNF, 95/5 or WONF criteria.
How to Choose the Right Flavour Classification for Your Product.
When developing a clean label product, manufacturers should consider:
- Will the product feature fruit imagery?
- Is premium positioning a priority?
- What is the cost tolerance per kg?
- What processing conditions will the flavour face?
- What regulatory market is targeted?
A technically sound flavour strategy can significantly influence both product performance and commercial success.
How Plant-Ex Supports Clean-label Innovation in the UK & Europe.
As a UK and European based manufacturer of natural flavour solutions, Plant-Ex supports food and beverage producers in selecting the optimal flavour classification for their project based on:
- EU regulatory requirements
- Application type
- Sensory objectives
- Budget constraints
Whether your clean-label project requires full FTNF authenticity or a flexible WONF solution, our teams will work closely with your R&D departments to ensure regulatory compliance and clean-label excellence.
Need guidance on flavour classification for your next development? Contact our technical team to discuss your application, and request samples of our flavours.