Liquorice Paste
Licorice paste contains glycyrrhizin, which inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase causing pseudoaldosteronism (hypokalemia, hypertension, arrhythmias). FDA warns that adults over 40 eating ≥2 oz of black licorice daily for at least 2 weeks can develop irregular heart rhythms.
What it is
Concentrated paste from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra); used as flavor and confection base; rich in glycyrrhizin.
Flavoring, sweetener, candy/confectionery base.
Why it's flagged
- Hypokalemia and arrhythmia risk at high intake
- Hypertension
- Pregnancy: associated with shorter gestation and cognitive effects in offspring
What regulators actually say
"An upper limit of 100 mg/day of glycyrrhizin is recommended... severe hypokalemia... six out of nine cases experiencing cardiac arrest from QT prolongation caused by severe hypokalemia."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Licorice flavoring GRAS under 21 CFR 184.1408 with use limits; FDA consumer advisory on black licorice
European Union — EFSA
EU SCF guidance: not regularly exceed 100 mg glycyrrhizin/day
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