Mate
Also known as: yerba mate leaves, yerba mate
Yerba mate is generally safe at typical consumption levels and is GRAS as a flavoring. However, IARC has classified consumption of very hot mate as Group 2A (probably carcinogenic) due to thermal injury, and observational data link very hot, frequent mate consumption with esophageal cancer.
What it is
Tea-like infusion from leaves of Ilex paraguariensis (yerba mate).
Caffeinated beverage.
Why it's flagged
- Very hot mate consumption is IARC Group 2A (esophageal cancer; thermal injury)
- Contains caffeine - limit during pregnancy and in children
What regulators actually say
"Maté (Ilex paraguariensis) is included among GRAS natural flavorings in 21 CFR 182.20."
"Drinking very hot beverages was classified as probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A); this includes very hot mate."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as flavor (21 CFR 182.20)
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as food
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