Ingredient

Kola Nut

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Kola nuts are primarily used as a flavoring agent, especially in beverages like cola …

What it is

The kola nut is the fruit of the kola tree, native to the tropical rainforests of Africa. It is a tropical tree that produces pods, each containing several kola nuts. The nuts are typically dried and ground for use.

Why it's used

Kola nuts are primarily used as a flavoring agent, especially in beverages like cola drinks. They contain caffeine and have a bitter taste, which can contribute to the characteristic flavor profile of certain sodas and other products.

Health notes

In the US, kola nut extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring. It is a source of caffeine, which can have stimulant effects. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated kola nut, but no specific numeric limits for intake were set. Evidence on its health effects at typical consumption levels is limited.

Allergen info

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

Products containing Kola Nut

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Q-Tonic LLC Q Drinks, Real Kola Nut Organic Agave Soda 31kcal 0Protein 0Fat 7.9Carbs Current's Tackle Raw Chocolate Energy Coffee Bean With Energy Herbs Chocolate High in saturated fat — 90% DV per serving 538kcal 9.2Protein 43.1Fat 44.6Carbs Dorothy and Toto's Gourmet Kettle Corn Un Rum+Cola Non-Alcohol Cocktail, Un Rum+Cola Alcohol 17kcal 0Protein 0Fat 2.2Carbs Pinon Cola Zia Energia, LLC Pinon Cola Soda High in added sugars — 46% DV per serving 26kcal 0Protein 0Fat 6.5Carbs Herbal Tonic Drink Entertainment Production House Inc. Herbal Tonic Drink Other Drinks 39kcal 0Protein 0Fat 9.2Carbs Heritage Kola Sparkling Hydration Tonic, Heritage Kola Corsa Co LLC Heritage Kola Sparkling Hydration Tonic, Heritage Kola Water High in added sugars — 22% DV per serving 25kcal 0Protein 0Fat 6.3Carbs Cola Ancient Mushroom Elixir MILLENNIUM PRODUCTS Cola Ancient Mushroom Elixir Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 4kcal 0Protein 0Fat 3.0Carbs Tetley Tea Company Jamaica Ltd. Bissy Herbal Tea, Bissy Tea Bags 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0Carbs
Vanilla (3 products) Coriander (2 products) Water (2 products) Cinnamon (2 products) Cane Sugar (2 products) Caramel (2 products) Sea Salt (2 products) Orange (2 products) Lime (2 products) Nutmeg (2 products)

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.