Ingredient

Prickly Pear Puree

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

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use prickly pear puree as a natural sweetener and flavoring agent, adding a …

What it is

Prickly pear puree is made from the fruit of the prickly pear cactus, which is native to arid regions of the Americas. The fruit is typically harvested, cleaned, and then processed into a smooth puree, often with the seeds removed.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use prickly pear puree as a natural sweetener and flavoring agent, adding a unique fruity taste and a vibrant color to foods. It is commonly found in beverages like kombucha and teas, as well as in snacks, sauces, and confectionery.

Health notes

Prickly pear is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. It is a source of fiber and antioxidants. International bodies like EFSA have evaluated prickly pear extracts, noting their potential health benefits, though more research is ongoing. Evidence suggests that consuming prickly pear in typical food amounts is safe and may offer some health advantages.

Allergen info

Prickly pear puree is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Prickly Pear Puree

Compare 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.