Bitter orange
What is Bitter orange?
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) is a citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia, now cultivated worldwide. Its peel and juice are known for their intensely sour and bitter flavour, distinct from the sweeter common orange.
Is Bitter orange vegan?
Bitter orange is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Bitter orange a major allergen?
Bitter orange is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Bitter orange used for?
Bitter orange is primarily used to impart a distinctive sharp, bitter flavour to foods, most notably in marmalades and preserves.
Is Bitter orange safe?
Bitter orange is not typically classified as a food additive and does not have an E-number.
Why it's used
Bitter orange is primarily used to impart a distinctive sharp, bitter flavour to foods, most notably in marmalades and preserves. It is also used in some liqueurs and as a flavouring agent in confectionery.
Health notes
Bitter orange is not typically classified as a food additive and does not have an E-number. While some traditional uses and supplements suggest potential health benefits, these are not widely recognised by UK food regulation. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated bitter orange extract in the context of food supplements, but its use in general food products is primarily for flavour. Evidence regarding specific health effects from consuming bitter orange in typical food amounts is limited.
Allergen info
Bitter orange is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Bitter orange
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