And Wasabi
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What it is
Wasabi is a plant in the Brassicaceae family, related to horseradish and mustard. The pungent green paste or powder is made from the rhizome (underground stem) of the wasabi plant, which is traditionally grated fresh. It is known for its sharp, sinus-clearing heat.
Why it's used
Wasabi is primarily used as a flavoring agent, providing a distinct spicy kick. It is commonly paired with sushi and sashimi, but also appears in snacks like chips and pretzels, as well as sauces and marinades. Its strong flavor can also help mask other less desirable tastes in food products.
Health notes
Wasabi is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food flavoring. Regulatory bodies like JECFA have evaluated wasabi and its components. While often associated with health benefits due to compounds like allyl isothiocyanate, scientific evidence for significant health impacts at typical dietary intake levels is limited and requires more research. Some individuals may experience digestive upset.
Allergen info
Wasabi is not one of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.