FlavScents AInsights Entry for Liquidambar styraciflua Balsam Extract (CAS: 94891-28-8)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract, commonly known as American sweetgum balsam, is a natural complex material derived from the resin of the Liquidambar styraciflua tree. This extract is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for this extract is 94891-28-8. It does not have a specific FEMA number or IUPAC name due to its complex nature. The extract is used in both flavor and fragrance applications, valued for its unique aromatic profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
The sensory profile of Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is characterized by a warm, balsamic, and slightly sweet aroma with hints of cinnamon and vanilla. It is often described as having a rich, resinous quality that can add depth and complexity to both flavors and fragrances. The intensity of the aroma is moderate, making it suitable as a background note or a modifier in formulations. Specific odor and taste thresholds are not well-documented, but it is typically used to impart a comforting and familiar scent profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is naturally sourced from the resin of the Liquidambar styraciflua tree, commonly found in the southeastern United States and parts of Central America. The resin is collected and processed to produce the extract. This material is considered a natural flavor and fragrance ingredient, aligning with consumer preferences for natural products. The formation of the extract involves the collection of resin followed by purification processes to obtain the desired aromatic compounds.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is used to impart a warm, sweet, and spicy note, often in confectionery, baked goods, and beverages. It serves as a background realism enhancer and a modifier. Typical use levels in finished products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. The extract is relatively stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is utilized in various fragrance families, including oriental and woody compositions. It acts as a base note, providing warmth and depth to perfumes and personal care products. The typical concentration in fragrance formulations ranges from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the desired effect. Its volatility is moderate, contributing to the middle to base notes in a fragrance composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract include cinnamic acid, cinnamyl cinnamate, and styrene. These compounds contribute to its characteristic balsamic and sweet aroma. The composition of the extract can vary based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and is permitted for use in food and fragrance applications. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom aligns with the EU post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, and in Latin America, such as Brazil and MERCOSUR, the extract is generally accepted, but specific regulations may vary, requiring verification for compliance.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is considered safe within the typical use levels in food products, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, but formulators should consider potential sensitization in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant safety concerns reported.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is valued for its ability to add warmth and complexity to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other sweet and spicy notes, such as vanilla and cinnamon. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to an overpowering balsamic character. It is often underutilized in modern formulations, offering opportunities for innovation in natural product lines.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and typical applications. However, specific quantitative data on thresholds and regulatory nuances in certain regions may be less documented. Industry practices often guide its use, with some variability in composition due to natural sourcing.
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 2026-06-29 14:26:26 GMT (p2)