Tejocote

Tejocote is a fruit native to Mexico and Central America, often described as a small, yellow-orange fruit resembling a crabapple. It has a tart, slightly sweet flavor. The fruit is typically harvested from wild trees or cultivated orchards and can be eaten fresh, dried, or used in various culinary preparations.

Tejocote is primarily used as a flavoring agent, adding a distinct tart and fruity note to foods. It is commonly found in candies, fruit pastes, and beverages, often paired with other tropical flavors like tamarind and mango. Its unique taste profile makes it a popular ingredient in Mexican confectionery.

Tejocote is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. It is a source of vitamin C and other antioxidants. While specific regulatory evaluations by bodies like JECFA or EFSA are not widely documented for tejocote as a distinct ingredient, its consumption in traditional diets has not raised significant health concerns. Evidence regarding specific health benefits or risks at typical intake levels is limited.