Rocket

Rocket, also known as arugula, is a leafy green vegetable belonging to the Brassicaceae family, which also includes cabbage and broccoli. It has a peppery, slightly bitter flavour and is native to the Mediterranean region. It is typically grown for its leaves, which are harvested when young and tender.

Rocket is primarily used as a salad green, adding a distinctive peppery bite to dishes. It is also commonly added to sandwiches, pizzas, and pasta dishes for fresh flavour and texture. Its strong flavour means it is often used in smaller quantities to complement other ingredients.

Rocket is a food, not a food additive, and therefore does not have an E-number or require authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It is a source of vitamins and minerals, and its fibre content contributes to a healthy diet, as advised by the NHS Eatwell Guide. There is no specific regulatory status for rocket as a food ingredient beyond general food safety requirements. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical consumption.