Rubbed Herbs

Rubbed herbs are dried herbs that have been rubbed or crushed to release their flavour and aroma. This process breaks down the leaf structure, making them easier to incorporate into food products. They are commonly derived from plants like parsley, basil, oregano, and thyme.

Manufacturers add rubbed herbs to enhance the flavour and aroma of a wide variety of savoury foods. They are frequently used in processed meats, sausages, marinades, sauces, and ready meals to provide a fresh, herbaceous taste.

Rubbed herbs are generally considered food ingredients rather than food additives and are not assigned E-numbers. They are not typically subject to specific regulatory limits beyond general food safety requirements. While herbs contain various compounds, their use in typical food quantities is not associated with adverse health effects according to major regulatory bodies. Evidence regarding specific health benefits or risks from consuming herbs in food is generally limited and not a focus of regulatory evaluation for safety.