This official Hawaii memorandum documents the State’s determination regarding kava’s status as a food, confirming kava is safe and recognizing it as generally recognized as safe (GRAS), and approved for retail food service.

The document evaluates kava within the context of food safety law, common use in food, and established preparation and sale practices.

The determination carries major significance for kava producers, retailers, and consumers by formally recognizing kava’s lawful status as a food while honoring its deep roots in Pacific Islander culture, where kava has long been prepared and shared as part of daily life and community gatherings.  It provides clear regulatory certainty, supports retail sale and preparation, and represents an important step forward in aligning modern food service policy with longstanding cultural food traditions.