Cocktail Sauce: Prepared Horseradish

Prepared horseradish is a condiment made from grated horseradish root, vinegar, water, and seasonings. The root itself is a pungent cruciferous vegetable, related to mustard and wasabi. Processing typically involves grating the root and mixing it with other ingredients to create a stable, flavorful product.

Prepared horseradish is primarily used to add a sharp, pungent flavor to foods. It is a key ingredient in cocktail sauce and is also served as a condiment with roasted meats, seafood, and in Bloody Mary cocktails. Manufacturers add it for its distinct spicy taste and aroma.

Horseradish is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. It contains compounds that may have some antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, though research is ongoing. JECFA has evaluated horseradish and found no safety concerns. No specific upper intake limits have been set by regulatory bodies for typical dietary consumption.