Mate Extract

Mate extract is a concentrated liquid or powder derived from the leaves of the yerba mate plant (Ilex paraguariensis), native to South America. The leaves are typically dried, roasted, and then steeped in hot water to create a beverage, from which the extract is produced.

Manufacturers use mate extract primarily as a source of caffeine and for its distinct flavor in beverages like teas, energy drinks, and flavored waters. It can also contribute a slightly bitter taste and a natural brown color to food products.

Mate extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It contains caffeine, which can have stimulant effects. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated yerba mate and its components. Research on the long-term health effects of mate consumption is ongoing, with some studies suggesting potential benefits related to antioxidant content, while others note potential risks associated with very high consumption.