Bitter Almond Extract
Commercial bitter almond extract sold for baking is processed/distilled to remove hydrocyanic acid (HCN) and is safe at culinary use levels. Raw bitter almonds themselves are not legal for sale to consumers in the U.S.
What it is
Flavoring extract derived from bitter almonds (Prunus dulcis var. amara) or synthetic benzaldehyde; raw bitter almonds contain amygdalin which releases cyanide.
Almond flavoring, particularly intense almond/marzipan note.
Why it's flagged
- cyanide in raw form (not in processed extract)
What regulators actually say
"Essential oils, oleoresins (solvent-free), and natural extractives (including distillates) that are generally recognized as safe for their intended use... Almond, bitter (free from prussic acid)."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Bitter almond oil, FFPA (free from prussic acid) is GRAS as a flavoring (21 CFR 182.20)
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as flavoring; regulated for HCN limits
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