Updated March 2025:
Each industry has its own language, partially defined by the abbreviations used throughout meetings, conferences, collaborations and industry publications. Exposure to industry specific terms may vary depending on department and job function, so we thought it would be helpful to put together a guide of some of the most common acronyms in our industry. Let Imbibe be a resource to enhance your product offerings with our flavors, taste modulation ingredients, and comprehensive R&D support. Together, we can accelerate your innovation pipeline and ensure timely market entry. Here is a resource with acronyms that all food and beverage industry professionals should know:
Regulatory & Compliance
| Acronym | Meaning |
| CFR | Code of Federal Regulations |
| FD&C | United States Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act |
| FEMA | Flavor and Extract Manufacturer’s Association |
| GRAS | Generally Recognized As Safe |
| RACC | Reference Amount Customarily Consumed |
| NBFDS | National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard (bioengineered food labeling) |
| FDA | Food and Drug Administration |
| USDA | United States Department of Agriculture |
Processing & Preservation Methods
| Acronym | Meaning |
| HTST | Hot Temperature Short Time (treatment method for processing) |
| UHT | Ultra High Temp (treatment method for processing) |
| HPP | High Pressure Processing (nonthermal preservation method) |
| MAP | Modified Atmosphere Packaging (used to extend shelf life) |
| TP | Tunnel Pasteurization |
Product Types & Categories
| Acronym | Meaning |
| CSD | Carbonated Soft Drink |
| LRB | Liquid Refreshment Beverage |
| RTD | Ready to Drink |
| FAB | Food and Beverage |
| FMP | Flavor with Modulating or Modifying Properties |
Foodservice
| Acronym | Meaning |
| BOH | Back of House |
| QSR | Quick Service Restaurant |
| FOH | Front of House (customer-facing restaurant operations) |
Partner with Imbibe to leverage our expertise in flavor innovation and product development. Let us help you create standout products that drive market differentiation and customer engagement. Email us at marketing@imbibeinc.com to get started.
