Nettle
What is Nettle?
Nettle (Urtica dioica) is a herbaceous flowering plant native to Europe, Asia, and parts of North America. The leaves and stems are typically harvested, then dried and processed for use in food products.
Is Nettle vegan?
Nettle is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Nettle gluten-free?
It does not contain gluten.
Is Nettle a major allergen?
Nettle is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Nettle used for?
Nettle is primarily used as a flavouring agent in food and drink, particularly in herbal teas and infusions.
Is Nettle safe?
Nettle is not considered a food additive under UK law and therefore does not have an E-number or require authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Nettle is primarily used as a flavouring agent in food and drink, particularly in herbal teas and infusions. It imparts a mild, earthy, and slightly grassy flavour profile. It is also sometimes used for its perceived health benefits.
Health notes
Nettle is not considered a food additive under UK law and therefore does not have an E-number or require authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It is a plant-based ingredient commonly consumed in teas. While some traditional uses and preliminary research suggest potential benefits, robust scientific evidence from large-scale human studies is often limited. Regulatory bodies such as EFSA have not set specific limits for nettle consumption as it is not evaluated as a food additive.
Allergen info
Nettle is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Nettle
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