Essential Oils

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that capture the plant's scent and flavor. They are typically produced by steam distillation or cold pressing parts of plants like flowers, leaves, bark, or fruit peels. These oils are highly concentrated and used in small amounts.

Essential oils are primarily used to add or enhance flavor and aroma in foods and beverages. They can provide a wide range of taste profiles, from fruity and floral to spicy and herbaceous. You can find them in baked goods, candies, beverages, and savory snacks.

Essential oils are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as flavoring agents. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many essential oils for safety. While generally safe in the small amounts used in food, some individuals may experience sensitivities. Research into specific health effects is ongoing, and evidence on benefits or risks can be mixed.