The clock is ticking for cheese manufacturers across Europe. Starting 1 July 2026, the European Union will officially ban the use of traditional smoke flavourings in most food categories, including cheese. This decision aims to phase out eight specific traditional smoke flavourings.
But before you start thinking about ditching your smoked cheddar or gouda, there’s good news. Natural smoke-free flavours are here to help you maintain that rich, smoky profile without breaching the new regulations.
What the EU Smoke Flavours Ban Means for Cheese Manufacturers
Smoked cheeses are more than just a product, they’re a tradition. Whether it’s a tangy smoked gouda or a robust smoked cheddar, these flavours are crucial to your offerings. With the upcoming ban, it’s important to find compliant alternatives that don’t compromise on taste.
Why Natural Smoke-Free Flavours Are the Solution
Natural smoke-free flavours replicate the taste and aroma of traditional smoke without using banned smoke condensates. They are:
- Compliant with EU regulations
- Clean-label friendly
- Easy to integrate into existing cheese recipes
These flavours are especially effective in cheese, delivering woody, nutty, spicy, and caramel notes that make smoked cheese so loved.
Our Range of Natural Smoke-Free Flavours for Cheese
At I.T.S. we offer a range of natural smoke-free flavours designed specifically for cheese applications:
| Flavour Code | Flavour Name | Main Flavour Characteristics in Cheese |
|---|
| 13250 | Hickory Style Smoke Flavouring | Savoury, bitter, phenolic, meaty |
| 13471 | Smoke Type Flavouring | Charred, woody, sweet, caramel |
| 13660 | Smoke-Style Flavouring | Woody, nutty, savoury |
| 13668 | Smoke Style Flavouring (Applewood) | Charred, sweet, mild |
| 14055 | Smoke-Style Flavouring | Spicy, charred, strong, meaty |
| 14175 | Applewood Smoke Type Flavouring | Appley, fruity, sharp, nutty |
| 14603 | Beechwood Type Smoke Free | Mild, earthy, woody, charred |
How Cheese Makers Can Stay Ahead
Adopting natural smoke-free flavours now helps you:
- Maintain signature smoky profiles in cheeses
- Stay fully compliant with the EU ban from 1 July 2026
- Appeal to health-conscious and clean-label consumers
- Avoid costly reformulations or product withdrawals
Want to try natural smoke free flavours for yourself? Request a sample today and experience how our smoke-free flavours can transform your cheese products.
