Spice And Spice Extractives Including Paprika

Spices are aromatic or pungent vegetable substances used for flavoring food. Spice extractives are concentrated forms of spices, often obtained through solvent extraction. They capture the characteristic flavor and aroma of the original spice.

Manufacturers use spices and their extracts to add flavor and aroma to a wide variety of foods. They are common in savory products like snacks, processed meats, sauces, and seasonings, as well as in baked goods and beverages.

Spices and spice extractives are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used for flavoring. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many individual spices and their components. While generally considered safe in typical food use, some individuals may experience digestive upset from very pungent spices. Research into specific compounds found in spices is ongoing, but no major health concerns are associated with their use as flavoring agents at typical levels.