Tamarindo
What is Tamarindo?
Tamarind is a tropical fruit that grows in a pod on the Tamarindus indica tree. The fruit has a hard shell, and inside is a sticky, paste-like pulp surrounding several seeds. The pulp is typically processed to remove seeds and fibrous material, and can be used fresh or dried.
Is Tamarindo vegan?
Tamarindo is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Tamarindo gluten-free?
It does not contain gluten.
Is Tamarindo a major allergen?
Tamarind is not one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA.
What is Tamarindo used for?
Tamarind pulp is used as a flavoring agent, adding a sweet and sour taste to foods and beverages.
Is Tamarindo safe?
Tamarind is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food.
Why it's used
Tamarind pulp is used as a flavoring agent, adding a sweet and sour taste to foods and beverages. It is commonly found in candies, chutneys, sauces, marinades, and drinks like aguas frescas. Its tartness also makes it useful in balancing flavors in savory dishes.
Health notes
Tamarind is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of vitamin C and antioxidants. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated tamarind, but did not set a specific numerical limit for intake. Some traditional medicine uses suggest benefits for digestion, but more scientific research is needed to confirm these effects.
Allergen info
Tamarind is not one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Tamarindo
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