Introduction

Liquorice, also known as licorice, is a plant species that is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. It is a popular flavoring agent that has a sweet and slightly bitter taste. This text will discuss the origins of liquorice, the industries that use it, the different types of liquorice used in these industries, the main countries that produce it, and the standards it must meet to be used in UK industries. Additionally, we will highlight how Sophia Enterprise can provide all types of liquorice for industries.

Where is Liquorice coming from?

Liquorice is a plant species that grows in many regions of the world, including Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The plant is commonly found in countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, and China. Liquorice is primarily grown for its root, which is where the sweet flavor comes from.

Industries using Liquorice

Liquorice is a popular ingredient in many different industries, including food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. In the food industry, it is commonly used as a flavoring agent in candies, chewing gum, and baked goods. It is also used in the production of some alcoholic beverages, such as some types of beer and liqueurs. In the pharmaceutical industry, liquorice is used as a natural remedy for various ailments, such as sore throats and coughs. In the cosmetic industry, liquorice is used in skin care products due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Types of Liquorice getting used in industries

There are several different types of liquorice used in various industries. The most common type is the traditional liquorice root, which is used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. There is also a type of liquorice called "deglycyrrhizinated liquorice," or DGL, which has had the compound responsible for the sweet taste removed. This type of liquorice is used in the treatment of stomach ulcers and heartburn.

Main countries of Liquorice production

The main countries that produce liquorice are Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, and China. These countries have ideal growing conditions for the plant and have been producing liquorice for centuries. Iran is the largest producer of liquorice, followed by Turkey and Afghanistan.

Standards for Liquorice in UK industries

In the UK, liquorice must meet certain standards to be used in industries. The Food Standards Agency has set guidelines for the use of liquorice in food products, including limits on the amount of glycyrrhizin, the compound responsible for the sweet taste, that can be present. In the pharmaceutical industry, liquorice must meet the standards set by the European Pharmacopoeia.