Licorice itself is not banned in California – glycyrrhizin

Health Concerns of Licorice

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Glycyrrhizin can cause sodium retention and potassium loss, leading to elevated blood pressure. Chronic consumption of licorice can result in hypertension, which is a significant health risk.

Hypokalemia (Low Potassium Levels)

Excessive intake of glycyrrhizin can cause a drop in potassium levels, leading to muscle weakness, fatigue, and in severe cases, arrhythmias and paralysis.

Edema (Fluid Retention)

Glycyrrhizin's effect on sodium retention can lead to fluid retention and swelling, especially in individuals with heart or kidney conditions.

California Proposition 65:

Proposition 65 (The Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986)

This regulation requires businesses to provide warnings about significant exposures to chemicals that cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Glycyrrhizin itself is not on the Proposition 65 list, but products containing glycyrrhizin might require labeling if they contain other chemicals that are listed under Proposition 65.

Regulatory Actions

FDA Warnings and Recommendations

The FDA has issued warnings about the potential risks of consuming large amounts of licorice. They recommend that individuals, particularly those over 40, limit their consumption of black licorice to avoid health issues related to glycyrrhizin.

Licorice Products in California

While licorice products are not banned, manufacturers and retailers need to ensure their products comply with state and federal regulations regarding glycyrrhizin content and appropriate labeling.

Consumers are advised to be aware of the potential health risks associated with excessive licorice consumption and to consult healthcare professionals if they have concerns, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions.

Conclusion

Licorice itself is not banned in California, but products with high levels of glycyrrhizin are regulated due to potential health risks such as hypertension, hypokalemia, and edema. Proposition 65 and FDA guidelines also influence how licorice products are labeled and marketed to ensure consumer safety.