FlavScents AInsights Entry: Laurus Nobilis Leaf Extract (CAS: 84603-73-6)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Laurus nobilis leaf extract, commonly known as bay leaf extract, is derived from the leaves of the Laurus nobilis plant. It is a complex natural material rather than a single chemical compound. The CAS number for this extract is 84603-73-6. While it does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature, it is recognized in various flavor and fragrance applications. The extract is composed of multiple constituents, including essential oils, which contribute to its characteristic aroma and flavor.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
The sensory profile of laurus nobilis leaf extract is characterized by a warm, spicy, and slightly floral aroma with a hint of camphor. It is often described as having a sweet, balsamic undertone. The intensity of the odor is moderate, making it suitable for both impact and background notes in formulations. The extract is used to impart a rich, aromatic quality to culinary and fragrance products, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Laurus nobilis is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated for its aromatic leaves. The extract is obtained through steam distillation of the leaves, capturing the volatile compounds responsible for its distinctive aroma. The natural occurrence of these compounds in the plant makes it a candidate for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, laurus nobilis leaf extract is used in savory products, such as soups, stews, and sauces, to provide a complex, aromatic profile. It functions as a flavor enhancer and can be used in combination with other spices to create depth and richness. Typical use levels in food range from 10 to 50 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. The extract is generally stable under heat and acidic conditions, making it versatile for various culinary uses.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Laurus nobilis leaf extract is utilized in fragrance formulations for its warm, spicy, and slightly floral notes. It is commonly found in oriental and spicy fragrance families, contributing to both top and middle notes. The extract is used in concentrations ranging from trace amounts to several percent, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its moderate volatility allows it to blend well with other fragrance components, providing a balanced aromatic profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of laurus nobilis leaf extract include 1,8-cineole, linalool, eugenol, and methyl eugenol. These compounds contribute to the extract's characteristic aroma and flavor. The composition of the extract can vary based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and extraction method. It is important for formulators to consider these variations when using the extract in products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, laurus nobilis leaf extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by the FDA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom aligns with the EU regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, the extract is accepted in countries like Japan and China, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, it is recognized in countries such as Brazil under MERCOSUR guidelines. Formulators should verify compliance with local regulations when using the extract in products.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, laurus nobilis leaf extract is considered safe at typical use levels in food, with no specific ADI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though some constituents like eugenol may cause sensitization in sensitive individuals. The extract's volatility poses minimal inhalation risk under normal use conditions. Formulators should consider potential sensitization and ensure compliance with IFRA guidelines for fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Laurus nobilis leaf extract is valued for its ability to impart a warm, complex aroma and flavor to products. It synergizes well with other spices and aromatic compounds, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be mindful of its intensity and potential for sensitization, particularly in fragrance applications. The extract is often underutilized in sweet applications, where it can add an unexpected depth and warmth.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on laurus nobilis leaf extract is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are documented, though some variations in composition may not be fully captured in the literature. Formulators should be aware of these potential data gaps and verify specific constituent levels when necessary.
Citation hooks: FlavScents
QA Check
- All required sections 1–9 are present
- "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
- Flavor section includes ppm ranges
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- Includes section 5a for complex natural material
About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.
Generated 2026-02-13 14:57:10 GMT (p2)