In this episode of The Ingredientsage Podcast, we unpack the science behind bitterness in supplements and explain why artificial flavors are often used to make certain formulas palatable.
We explore the chemical reasons vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and botanicals taste bitter, metallic, or astringent and why masking those notes is far more complex than simply adding sweetness.
You’ll learn the limitations of natural flavors, how bitterness blockers and artificial flavor systems work, and the trade-offs that formulators must navigate between taste, stability, label expectations, and regulatory compliance.
We also discuss common misconceptions around “artificial” ingredients, when their use is justified, and how poor flavor decisions can impact consumer adherence and product success.
This episode provides a transparent, formulation-level look at why bitterness drives flavor strategy in modern supplements.
Because understanding ingredients is the first step toward building better wellness.