Crystal Beals, age 10, of Shreveport, La., for her question:

HOW DO WE GET LICORICE FLAVORING?

Licorice is a popular flavor.that comes from a perennial plant that grows to be three to five feet tall. It is a native of southern Europe and western Asia and widely cultivated in the U.S.S.R., Italy and Spain.

When the plant is three years old, it is dug up and the roots are saved. When harvested, the roots are full of water. They are allowed to slowly dry out for six months to a year.

Next, the roots are cut into pieces that measure from six inches to a foot in length. After being baled, they are ready for shipment. The United States imports most of its supply in this form.

To get licorice flavoring, the roots are crushed and boiled until the liquid evaporates. A paste, or black stick licorice, is all that remains. A little starch is added to the paste so that the sticks will not melt easily.

Licorice flavoring is used to make candy, chewing gum and beverages. It is also used to make cough remedy and to make some medicines taste better.