Kola Nut Extract

Kola nut extract comes from the seeds of the kola tree, native to West Africa. The seeds are dried, roasted, and then extracted to create a liquid or powder used in food and beverages.

Kola nut extract is primarily used as a flavoring agent, giving a distinct bitter and sweet taste. It is most commonly found in carbonated soft drinks, particularly colas, and can also appear in energy drinks and some snack products.

In the U.S., kola nut extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its intended use as a flavoring. It contains caffeine, which can have stimulant effects. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated kola nut, but it's important to note that regulatory bodies do not set specific upper intake limits for flavorings. Evidence on long-term health effects from typical consumption is limited.