Ingredient

Aniseed Oil

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Aniseed oil is primarily used as a flavoring agent in a variety of food …

What it is

Aniseed oil is a fragrant essential oil extracted from the seeds of the Pimpinella anisum plant, which is native to the Mediterranean region. The oil is typically obtained through steam distillation of the dried seeds. It has a strong, distinct licorice-like aroma and flavor.

Why it's used

Aniseed oil is primarily used as a flavoring agent in a variety of food products. Its sweet, aromatic profile makes it a popular choice for candies, baked goods, and liqueurs. Manufacturers use it to impart a characteristic licorice taste.

Health notes

In the U.S., aniseed oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated aniseed and its components, and have established acceptable daily intake levels. While generally safe at typical consumption levels, some individuals may experience mild digestive upset.

Allergen info

Aniseed oil is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Aniseed Oil

Compare products →

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.