Ambergris

Flavoring Agent

Ambergris at a glance

Category: Flavoring Agent
Also called: Grey Amber, Floating Gold
Diets reviewed: 26 diets

What is Ambergris?

Ambergris is a waxy, aromatic substance formed in the digestive system of sperm whales. It has been highly valued for centuries, primarily in the perfume industry due to its unique scent. Occasionally, ambergris has been used to flavor foods and beverages, lending a musky, sweet aroma. Its use in food is rare and often considered a luxury due to its scarcity and high cost. As ambergris is derived from animal sources, it is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Also known as:

Grey AmberFloating Gold

Diet Compatibility

Fish FreeAvoid

Ambergris comes from whale intestines and is used to flavor food.

VeganAvoid

Ambergris comes from whale intestines and is used to flavor food.

VegetarianAvoid

Ambergris comes from whale intestines and is used to flavor food.

Alpha-Gal FriendlyAvoid

Ambergris comes from whale intestines and is used to flavor food. It contains alpha-gal.

Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

Corn FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Corn Free diet.

Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Ambergris

People avoid ambergris primarily because it is derived from the intestines of sperm whales, making it unsuitable for those following vegetarian, vegan, or certain animal-free diets. Additionally, due to its rarity and high cost, it is not commonly used in modern food products. There are also ethical concerns regarding the use of animal products, especially those from endangered species like the sperm whale.

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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