Rowanberry
Also known as: rowanberries
Rowanberries are a traditional food ingredient, but raw berries contain parasorbic acid which can cause gastrointestinal upset; cooking, drying, or freezing converts it to harmless sorbic acid. Cooked/processed rowanberry products are safely consumed traditionally.
What it is
Berries of the rowan tree (Sorbus aucuparia), traditionally used in jams, jellies, and liqueurs.
Whole-fruit ingredient providing tart flavor and color.
Why it's flagged
- Raw berries contain parasorbic acid — should be cooked or frozen before use
What regulators actually say
"Rowan fruits contain parasorbic acid, an irritant that is converted to sorbic acid during heat treatment, drying, or freezing, rendering the fruits palatable and safe."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Conventional food; sorbic acid (its derivative) is GRAS as a preservative.
European Union — EFSA
Traditional food; permitted in conventional food preparations.
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