Ingredient

Bay

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Bay leaves add a distinct, slightly bitter, aromatic flavor to foods. They are commonly …

What it is

Bay leaves come from the bay laurel tree (Laurus nobilis), native to the Mediterranean region. The leaves are harvested, dried, and used whole or ground as a culinary herb.

Why it's used

Bay leaves add a distinct, slightly bitter, aromatic flavor to foods. They are commonly used in slow-cooked dishes like soups, stews, sauces, and stocks, where their flavor can infuse gradually. They are typically removed before serving.

Health notes

Bay leaves are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food flavoring. They are not typically consumed in large quantities, so specific health effects at typical intake levels are not a major concern. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated bay leaf and its extracts, but no specific numeric limits have been set. There are no widespread controversies regarding the use of bay leaves in food.

Allergen info

Bay leaf is not one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Bay

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Chicken Grilling Blends Up Country Naturals Of Vermont, Inc. Chicken Grilling Blends Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0Carbs CELIFIBR Vegetable Medley Bouillon Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 100kcal 9Protein 4Fat 16Carbs John Zidian Company Inc. Simmer Sauce, Lemon Artichoke Other Cooking Sauces 106kcal 0.9Protein 8.8Fat 4.4Carbs Original Seasoning Blend, Original Up Country Naturals Of Vermont, Inc. Original Seasoning Blend, Original Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 143Carbs Gallant Brands, Inc. The Original Soupman, Chicken Noodle With Vegetables Other Soups High in sodium — 35% DV per serving 50kcal 3.3Protein 1.0Fat 7.5Carbs 1 Step Software, Inc. Gourmet Popcorn, Crabby Caramel Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 444kcal 3.7Protein 11.1Fat 81.5Carbs Papa John's Salads & Produce Asparagus - Portabella Quiche Other Deli High in sodium — 20% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 55% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 50% DV per serving 219kcal 7.3Protein 15.9Fat 11.3Carbs Papa John's Salads & Produce Florentine Quiche Other Deli High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 55% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 48% DV per serving 225kcal 8.0Protein 16.6Fat 11.9Carbs Sugar 'N Spice, Inc. Seasoning Seafood Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0Carbs New Orleans Fish House, LLC Poppers, Shrimp Spinach & Artichoke Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres 233kcal 9.3Protein 11.6Fat 23.3Carbs Great Fresh Foods, Inc Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Patties Frozen Patties and Burgers High in sodium — 24% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 23% DV per serving 133kcal 18.0Protein 4.7Fat 5.5Carbs Great Fresh Foods, Inc Stuffed Chicken Patties, Applewood Smoked Uncured Bacon & Cheddar Frozen Patties and Burgers High in sodium — 29% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 26% DV per serving 164kcal 19.5Protein 7.0Fat 5.5Carbs
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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.