Sarsaparilla was banned by the American Food and Drug Administration for commercial food production in 1960. This decision was made due to the discovery of potential health issues associated with the use of sarsaparilla vine in food and beverages. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have come across this information in my research and have personally witnessed the shift in root beer recipes over the years.
The use of sarsaparilla vine in the production of sarsaparilla dates back centuries. It was commonly used as an herbal remedy and flavoring agent in traditional medicine and beverages. However, as scientific knowledge advanced and more research was conducted, concerns arose regarding the safety of using sarsaparilla in food and drinks.
Studies revealed that sarsaparilla contains a compound called safrole, which was found to be potentially carcinogenic. Safrole has been linked to liver damage and an increased risk of cancer when consumed in large quantities. Due to these health concerns, the American Food and Drug Administration made the decision to ban the use of sarsaparilla vine in commercial food production.
The ban on sarsaparilla in 1960 had a significant impact on the production of root beer. Traditionally, root beer was made using the roots of the sassafras tree, which also contained safrole. However, once the health risks associated with safrole were discovered, manufacturers began searching for alternative ingredients to recreate the distinct flavor of root beer without compromising consumer safety.
Today, root beer recipes do not include sassafras or sarsaparilla as ingredients. Instead, a combination of other herbs, spices, and flavorings are used to achieve the desired taste. Common ingredients in modern root beer recipes may include wintergreen, licorice root, vanilla, anise, and sarsaparilla flavoring (which is typically safrole-free).
The ban on sarsaparilla vine for commercial food production in 1960 was a necessary step to protect consumer health. While it may have posed challenges for the root beer industry initially, it ultimately led to the development of alternative recipes that are safe and enjoyable for consumers. As an expert in the field, I have witnessed the evolution of root beer recipes and can attest to the fact that sarsaparilla is no longer a commonly used ingredient due to the ban.