Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle is a flowering plant with a sweet-smelling fragrance. The edible parts, typically the flowers or nectar, are harvested from various species of the Lonicera genus. These parts can be used fresh or processed into extracts and flavorings.

Honeysuckle is primarily used as a flavoring agent, imparting a floral and sweet taste to foods and beverages. It is often found in teas, kombucha, and other drinks, where it complements fruit and herbal notes. Manufacturers may also use it to add a unique aromatic quality.

Honeysuckle is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food flavoring. Scientific bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have evaluated many flavoring substances, but specific evaluations for honeysuckle as a distinct ingredient may vary. At typical consumption levels found in food, it is not associated with adverse health effects. Research into its specific health properties is ongoing, but it is not a regulated pharmaceutical.