Liquorice Powder
Glycyrrhizin/glycyrrhizinic acid in liquorice can cause hypertension, hypokalemia, and edema (apparent mineralocorticoid excess) at chronic intakes. EFSA recommends not exceeding 100 mg glycyrrhizinic acid/day, and FDA has issued consumer advisories on black licorice.
What it is
Liquorice powder is dried, ground root of Glycyrrhiza glabra; principal active glycyrrhizin contributes sweetness and pharmacology.
Flavoring/sweetener in confections, beverages, herbal infusions.
Why it's flagged
- Hypertension and hypokalemia from glycyrrhizin
- Drug interactions
What regulators actually say
"If you're 40 or older, eating 2 ounces of black licorice a day for at least two weeks could land you in the hospital with an irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia."
"Licorice... is generally recognized as safe when used in food in accordance with good manufacturing practice."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Licorice and glycyrrhizin are GRAS as flavoring (21 CFR 184.1408); FDA consumer advisory on black licorice
European Union — EFSA
EFSA recommends an upper intake of 100 mg glycyrrhizinic acid/day
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