Juniper
Juniper berries are a traditional culinary spice and FDA-permitted flavoring (21 CFR 182.20). Long history of safe use at culinary levels.
What it is
Berries/cones of Juniperus communis used as a culinary spice; characteristic flavor of gin and wild-game cookery.
Spice and flavoring; provides terpene-based aromatic notes.
Why it's flagged
- abortifacient potential of concentrated extracts in animal models
- kidney irritation at high oil intake
- essential oil should not be ingested undiluted
What regulators actually say
"Juniper berries are dried for use as a culinary component, with the dried berries crushed or grounded to release their flavor before being added to dishes including meat, soups, sauces, stews, stuffing and pickled foods."
"Abortifacient effects of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) and common juniper (Juniperus communis) on cattle."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as a spice/natural flavoring (21 CFR 182.20)
European Union — EFSA
Authorized natural flavoring under EU Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008
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