Elderflower
Also known as: elderflowers
Properly prepared elderflower (cooked/fermented/syrup) is GRAS as a natural flavoring (21 CFR 182.20) and traditionally consumed. Raw elder leaves, stems, bark, and unripe berries contain cyanogenic glycoside sambunigrin and can cause GI upset; flowers themselves are low in this compound but fresh raw flowers have caused mild reactions.
What it is
Flowers of Sambucus nigra (European elder); used dried or fresh in syrups, cordials, and infusions.
Flavoring / aromatic for cordials, teas, liqueurs.
Why it's flagged
- raw plant parts contain cyanogenic glycosides
- rare allergy
- must use S. nigra; S. ebulus is toxic
What regulators actually say
"Elder flowers (Sambucus canadensis L.; Sambucus nigra L.) - essential oils, oleoresins, and natural extractives... are generally recognized as safe."
"European Medicines Agency - Sambuci flos community herbal monograph supports traditional use."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS (21 CFR 182.20) as elder flowers.
European Union — EFSA
Authorised flavouring; EMA traditional herbal use monograph.
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app