Under the EU food improvement agents package, flavours are now divided into two groups: 'flavourings' and 'natural flavourings'. This means that technically the term, 'no artificial flavours', could become defunct in law.
While many manufacturers are likely to continue making such claims on their packaging, they shouldn't as they will no longer be backed up by a legal definition, said Taste Connection director Andrew Sainsbury.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has yet to release guidance for manufacturers on the changes, however a spokesman said that it would be looking to do so.
The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) acknowledged the complexity of the new requirements and is also working on developing guidance through its membership of the Confederation of Food and Drink Industries of Europe (CIAA).
The industry would like to see uniform interpretation for manufacturers across Europe, an FDF spokeswoman said.