Ingredient

Peppermint

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

What is Peppermint?

Peppermint is a hybrid mint species, a cross between water mint and spearmint. It is a perennial herb that grows in damp soil and is cultivated for its aromatic oil. The oil is extracted from the leaves and flowering tops of the plant.

Is Peppermint vegan?

Peppermint is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Peppermint gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is Peppermint a major allergen?

Peppermint is not one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA.

What is Peppermint used for?

Peppermint is primarily used as a flavoring agent in a wide variety of food products.

Is Peppermint safe?

Peppermint is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food flavoring.

Why it's used

Peppermint is primarily used as a flavoring agent in a wide variety of food products. Its strong, refreshing taste makes it popular in candies, chewing gum, mints, teas, and baked goods. It adds a distinct minty aroma and flavor.

Health notes

Peppermint is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food flavoring. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated peppermint oil, and it is permitted for use in food. Some studies suggest peppermint may help with digestive discomfort, but more research is needed. At typical consumption levels in food, it is not associated with adverse health effects.

Allergen info

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

Foods that contain Peppermint

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

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.