Ingredient

Caraway Oil

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Caraway oil is used as a flavoring agent in a variety of foods, most …

What it is

Caraway oil is a flavoring derived from the seeds of the caraway plant (Carum carvi). The seeds are typically steam distilled to extract the essential oil, which has a strong, pungent aroma and flavor reminiscent of anise or licorice.

Why it's used

Caraway oil is used as a flavoring agent in a variety of foods, most notably in baked goods like rye bread, crackers, and rolls. It can also be found in some liqueurs, savory dishes, and spice blends, adding a distinct aromatic note.

Health notes

In the U.S., caraway oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated caraway and its extracts. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at the low levels typically consumed in food.

Allergen info

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

Products containing Caraway Oil

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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.