Allspice Profile

What is Allspice?

Allspice is not a combination of different spices as is often thought. It is, however, a unique plant whose name was derived from its flavor and aroma: a combination of clove, cinnamon and nutmeg. In addition to its flavor and aroma characteristics, the allspice berries’ appearance is not unlike peppercorns and has consequently been known in the past as Pimenta.

Allspice grows as pea-sized berries on evergreen trees averaging 40 feet in height. They are indigenous to the tropical Americas, especially Jamaica. Berries are picked in late summer while still green and aromatic and dried prior to shipping.

The long, leathery leaves of the Pimenta diocia tree contain the same aromatic substance as the berries, eugenol, which is also found in cloves.

What is it used for today?

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Allspice is a common ingredient in bakery, tomato ketchup and pickling spice blends in the United States, while European countries consume it more often in a meat application. Meat seasoning blends which may contain allspice include German bologna, pork sausage, smoked meats, ham glazes and fish.

To learn more about the spices and seasonings that Fuchs has to offer, click here. Our experts are ready to educate your team on all things spices and seasonings. To find out more, contact us.

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