How to Read a Flavour Technical Data Sheet

A technical data sheet, commonly called a TDS, is the primary document a flavour supplier provides for every product in their range. It contains the technical information you need to formulate correctly, meet regulatory requirements, and evaluate whether a flavour suits your application. This guide explains what each section of a TDS contains and how to use it in your product development process.

WHAT IS A TECHNICAL DATA SHEET?

What does a technical data sheet contain?

A technical data sheet is a standardised document issued by a flavour manufacturer for a specific product. It confirms the product's identity, technical specifications, intended applications, recommended usage levels, shelf life, and storage conditions. In regulated food and beverage manufacturing, you should never incorporate a flavour into a formulation without first reviewing its TDS.

PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION

What does the product identification section tell me?

The product identification section contains the product name, the supplier's internal product code, and sometimes a batch or lot number. The product code is the reference you use when placing orders and when requesting certificates of analysis or safety data sheets. Always record the product code alongside the product name — flavour names can be generic but codes are unique to a specific formulation.

FLAVOUR TYPE AND DECLARATION

What is the difference between natural, nature identical, and artificial flavours on a TDS?

The TDS will state the flavour type, which determines how the flavour is declared on your finished product label. Natural flavours are derived from natural sources using physical, microbiological, or enzymatic processes. Nature identical flavours are chemically identical to natural flavour compounds but produced synthetically. They offer greater batch-to-batch consistency and are widely used in food and beverage manufacturing. Artificial flavours are synthetically produced compounds with no natural equivalent. UAE food labelling regulations require accurate flavour type declaration on the finished product. Always confirm the flavour type on the TDS before committing to a formulation.

SOLUBILITY

What does solubility mean on a technical data sheet?

The TDS will specify whether the flavour is water-soluble or oil-soluble. This is one of the most critical fields. A water-soluble flavour must be used in a water-based application. An oil-soluble flavour must be used in a fat or oil-based application. Using the wrong solubility type in your formulation produces poor flavour distribution, instability, and an inferior finished product. If the TDS does not clearly state solubility, ask your supplier before ordering.

RECOMMENDED DOSAGE

How do I use the dosage information on a TDS?

The dosage rate is expressed as a quantity per unit of finished product — typically grams per kilogram or grams per litre. For example, a dosage of 1g/L means you add 1 gram of flavour for every litre of finished beverage. This is the starting point for your formulation trial, not a fixed rule. Dosage rates vary depending on your application, the intensity of other ingredients, the processing conditions, and the desired flavour strength. Always begin formulation trials at the recommended dosage and adjust based on sensory evaluation. Keep records of every trial with the exact dosage used.

SHELF LIFE AND STORAGE

What shelf life and storage information does a TDS provide?

The TDS will state the shelf life of the flavour in its original unopened packaging, typically expressed in months from the date of manufacture. Common shelf life periods are 12 months and 24 months. Storage conditions are specified separately and typically include a temperature range, a humidity requirement, and a note about light and heat exposure. Most food-grade flavours should be stored between 15°C and 25°C, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong odours. The shelf life stated on a TDS applies to the unopened product. Once opened, the flavour should be stored in a sealed container and used within the period specified by your supplier.

APPLICATIONS

What does the applications section tell me?

The applications section lists the product categories the flavour has been tested and validated for — for example, beverages, dairy, bakery, confectionery, or ice cream. If your application is not listed, contact the supplier and ask whether the flavour has been tested in your specific product type before incorporating it.

HALAL AND REGULATORY STATUS

What regulatory information should I look for on a TDS?

For the UAE and GCC market, Halal certification is a non-negotiable requirement for food and beverage ingredients used in consumer products. The TDS should either confirm Halal certification directly or reference a separate Halal certificate available upon request. Always request the Halal certificate alongside the TDS and confirm the certifying body is recognised in the UAE. The TDS may also reference compliance with internationally recognised food safety standards such as HACCP, ISO 22000, or FSSC 22000.

INCOMPLETE DOCUMENTATION

What should I do if a section of the TDS is incomplete?

A professionally prepared TDS should contain all of the above fields. If any field is missing or marked as not available, contact the supplier directly before ordering. A supplier who cannot provide complete TDS documentation for a product is not a supplier you should be sourcing from for regulated food and beverage manufacturing in the UAE. Complete documentation is a baseline quality requirement, not an optional extra.

RELATED GUIDES

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