Guava

Guava is a tropical fruit native to Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America. It is a round or oval-shaped fruit with a green or yellow skin and sweet, pink or white flesh, containing numerous small, hard seeds. Guava is typically eaten fresh, but can also be used in juices, jams, and other food products.

Guava is primarily used as a flavouring ingredient in a wide variety of food and drink products, particularly in the UK where it is found in artificially sweetened beverages, sweetened beverages, and energy drinks. Its distinct tropical aroma and taste make it a popular choice for adding a fruity note to juices, smoothies, and desserts.

Guava is a fruit and not an additive that requires authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It is a source of vitamin C and dietary fibre. While generally considered safe as part of a balanced diet, consuming large quantities of fruit juice, even those containing guava, can contribute to high sugar intake, especially if they contain added sugars. The WHO recommends limiting free sugars to no more than 5% of total energy intake.