Wasabi

Wasabi is a Japanese plant in the mustard family. The pungent green paste or powder is made from the ground rhizome (underground stem) of the wasabi plant. It has a sharp, spicy flavor that dissipates quickly.

Wasabi is primarily used as a flavoring agent to add a pungent, spicy kick to foods. It is most famously served with sushi and sashimi, but also appears in snacks like chips and coated peas, as well as sauces.

Wasabi is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food flavoring. It is not typically consumed in amounts large enough to cause adverse health effects. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated wasabi, but no specific numeric limits were set. Research into the specific health benefits or risks of wasabi consumption at typical dietary levels is ongoing.