Ammonette Paste

Ammonette paste is a concentrated flavoring made from the ammoniated form of glycyrrhizic acid, the main sweet compound found in licorice root. It is produced by chemically treating licorice extract. This paste provides a very intense, sweet, and slightly bitter licorice flavor.

Manufacturers use ammonette paste as a potent flavoring agent to impart a strong licorice taste. Its intense flavor means only small amounts are needed. It is most commonly found in baked goods like cakes, cupcakes, and pastries, especially those with fruit or cream fillings where it can add a unique flavor dimension.

Ammonette paste is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a flavoring agent. Glycyrrhizic acid, the active compound, can have physiological effects if consumed in very large amounts over extended periods, such as raising blood pressure. However, the amounts used in typical food products are very small and not expected to cause adverse health effects. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated glycyrrhizic acid and its salts, establishing acceptable daily intakes.