Wasabi
Authentic wasabi is a whole-food rhizome paste. Commercial 'wasabi' is typically horseradish, mustard powder, and FD&C Yellow 5/Blue 1 colorings — the additive load depends on formulation.
What it is
Pungent green paste/powder traditionally from Wasabia japonica root; most commercial 'wasabi' is horseradish + mustard + green dye.
Pungent condiment with isothiocyanate-driven heat.
Why it's flagged
- commercial versions often contain Yellow 5 (tartrazine, EU warning list)
- label often misleading
What regulators actually say
"Following the McCann et al. (2007) study, six food colours including tartrazine (E102) require the warning that they 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Wasabi root is a whole food; commercial colorants regulated separately.
European Union — EFSA
Tartrazine (E102) requires the 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children' warning under EU Reg. 1333/2008.
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