Bayleaf
What is Bayleaf?
Bay leaf comes from the leaves of the bay laurel tree (Laurus nobilis), native to the Mediterranean region. The leaves are typically dried before being used whole or ground as a spice. They impart a distinct, slightly bitter, aromatic flavor.
Is Bayleaf vegan?
Bayleaf is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Bayleaf gluten-free?
It does not contain gluten.
Is Bayleaf a major allergen?
Bay leaf is not one of the FDA's nine major allergens.
What is Bayleaf used for?
Bay leaves are used to add flavor to a wide variety of dishes, especially slow-cooked foods like soups, stews, sauces, and braises.
Is Bayleaf safe?
Bay leaf is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring agent.
Why it's used
Bay leaves are used to add flavor to a wide variety of dishes, especially slow-cooked foods like soups, stews, sauces, and braises. They are commonly found in pickles, olives, and canned meats. The leaves are usually removed from the dish before serving.
Health notes
Bay leaf is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring agent. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated bay leaf and its extracts. At typical dietary intakes, bay leaf is not associated with adverse health effects. There is ongoing research into the potential health benefits of compounds found in bay leaf, but more studies are needed.
Allergen info
Bay leaf is not one of the FDA's nine major allergens. It does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Bayleaf
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