Quillaia Extract
The short version
A natural soap-bark extract rich in saponins — creates and stabilizes the foam in root beer and sodas.
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Where it comes from
A natural extract from the bark of the soap-bark tree (Quillaja saponaria), rich in foaming saponins.
How it's used
A foaming agent and emulsifier that creates and stabilizes the foam or 'head' in soft drinks — notably root beer, cream soda, and some slush and cocktail mixers.
Safety profile
ADI 0–1 mg/kg body weight as saponins (JECFA). The saponins are poorly absorbed; permitted at low levels in specified beverages.
Physical & chemical properties
Brownish liquid or powder that foams strongly in water even at low concentration.
Regulation worldwide
EU-permitted (limited to certain drinks); US (GRAS for beverage use).
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.