FlavScents AInsights Entry: Mace Oleoresin (CAS: 12/3/07)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Mace oleoresin is a natural complex material derived from the dried aril of the nutmeg seed (Myristica fragrans). It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of volatile and non-volatile components. The CAS number for mace oleoresin is 12/3/07. It does not have a specific FEMA number as it is a complex mixture rather than a single compound. Other identifiers include its use in flavor and fragrance applications, often referenced in industry literature.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Mace oleoresin is characterized by its warm, spicy, and slightly sweet aroma, reminiscent of nutmeg but with a more intense and complex profile. It is often described as having a rich, woody, and balsamic undertone. The oleoresin is used as an impact note in both flavor and fragrance formulations, providing depth and warmth. Specific odor and taste thresholds are not well-documented, but its potent aroma suggests low threshold levels.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Mace oleoresin is naturally sourced from the aril of the nutmeg seed, primarily grown in regions such as Indonesia, Grenada, and India. The oleoresin is obtained through solvent extraction, which concentrates the essential oils and resins. Its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" is due to its direct derivation from plant material without synthetic alteration.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Mace oleoresin is used in a variety of flavor applications, including baked goods, beverages, and savory dishes. It functions as a flavor enhancer, providing warmth and complexity. Typical use levels in food range from 1 to 20 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. It is stable under heat but may degrade under prolonged exposure to light and air.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance formulations, mace oleoresin is used in oriental and spicy fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the middle and base notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges are from trace amounts to 0.5% in the final product, depending on the desired olfactory profile. Its volatility is moderate, allowing it to provide lasting warmth and depth.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
Mace oleoresin typically contains a variety of constituents, including myristicin, elemicin, and safrole, which contribute to its characteristic aroma and flavor. The composition can vary significantly based on the origin, harvest time, and extraction method. These constituents are responsible for the oleoresin's sensory properties and functional roles in formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, mace oleoresin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by the FDA and FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, regulations vary, with Japan and China having specific guidelines for natural flavorings. In Latin America, countries like Brazil follow MERCOSUR regulations, which align closely with international standards.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, mace oleoresin is considered safe at typical use levels in food, with no specific ADI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances may pose a risk of irritation or sensitization, particularly due to constituents like safrole, which is restricted by IFRA. Inhalation exposure is generally low risk, but occupational safety measures should be in place to minimize prolonged exposure to concentrated forms.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Mace oleoresin is valued for its ability to impart warmth and complexity to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other spices and woody notes. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to overpowering compositions. It is often under-utilized in savory applications, where it can add depth and richness.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on mace oleoresin is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical applications. However, there are gaps in specific toxicological data and regulatory nuances across different regions. Industry practices often rely on historical usage and empirical evidence rather than documented studies.
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 15:30:55 GMT (p2)