Ingredient

Fresh Cilantro

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Cilantro is primarily used as a flavoring agent in a wide variety of dishes. …

What it is

Fresh cilantro is the leafy herb of the cilantro plant, also known as coriander. It is native to regions spanning from southern Europe and North Africa to southwestern Asia. The leaves and stems are harvested and used fresh, or sometimes dried.

Why it's used

Cilantro is primarily used as a flavoring agent in a wide variety of dishes. Its bright, citrusy, and slightly pungent taste makes it popular in Mexican, Latin American, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is frequently found in salsas, guacamole, curries, soups, and marinades.

Health notes

Fresh cilantro is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is a source of vitamins and antioxidants. International bodies like the WHO/FAO's JECFA have evaluated cilantro and its components, but no specific numeric limits are typically set for such herbs. Evidence does not suggest significant health concerns at typical dietary intake levels.

Allergen info

Cilantro is not one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Fresh Cilantro

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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.