Cinchona Bark
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What it is
Cinchona bark comes from the bark of cinchona trees, native to South America. The bark is dried and can be used whole or ground. It contains compounds like quinine, which has a bitter taste.
Why it's used
Cinchona bark is primarily used as a flavoring agent, especially in beverages. Its bitter taste is a key component in tonic water and other bitter liqueurs or cocktail mixers. It adds a distinct flavor profile that is often balanced with sweetness.
Health notes
In the U.S., cinchona bark is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is recognized for its flavoring properties. Regulatory bodies like JECFA have evaluated cinchona bark and its components, though specific numerical limits are not always set. Quinine, a compound found in cinchona bark, has been used medicinally, but at typical food intake levels, it is not associated with adverse effects.
Allergen info
Cinchona bark is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.