FlavScents AInsights Entry for Naringin (CAS: 10236-47-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Naringin
• IUPAC Name: (2S)-5-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-7-[(2S,3R,4S,5S,6R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-[(2S,3R,4S,5R,6R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-methyloxan-2-yl]oxyoxan-2-yl]oxy-2,3-dihydrochromen-4-one
• CAS Number: 10236-47-2
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 16.012
• Molecular Formula: C27H32O14
• Molecular Weight: 580.54 g/mol

Naringin is a flavonoid glycoside predominantly found in citrus fruits, particularly grapefruits. It consists of a naringenin moiety linked to a disaccharide, neohesperidose. The presence of hydroxyl groups contributes to its solubility and reactivity, influencing its sensory properties and stability in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Naringin is known for its bitter taste, which is a defining characteristic in grapefruit and certain other citrus fruits. It has a moderate intensity and can impart a lingering bitterness that is often perceived as undesirable in high concentrations. However, in controlled amounts, it can add complexity and authenticity to citrus flavor profiles. The bitterness threshold for naringin is relatively low, making it a potent modifier in flavor systems.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Naringin is naturally occurring in citrus fruits, with the highest concentrations found in grapefruits. It is biosynthesized in plants through the flavonoid pathway, where naringenin is glycosylated to form naringin. This compound is significant in the context of "natural flavor" designations, as it is derived directly from plant sources without synthetic modification.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Naringin is primarily used in citrus-flavored products to enhance authenticity and complexity. It is commonly found in beverages, confectionery, and desserts. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to excessive bitterness. Its stability is generally good under acidic conditions but can degrade under high heat or alkaline environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

While naringin is not a primary fragrance ingredient, it can be used in trace amounts to add a bitter nuance to citrus fragrance accords. It is typically used in fragrance families such as citrus and chypre. Its volatility is low, contributing more to the middle notes of a fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Naringin is not specifically listed as GRAS by FEMA but is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
• European Union: Permitted as a flavoring substance under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific usage levels regulated.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations varying by country.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Naringin is considered safe for oral consumption at typical dietary levels. The acceptable daily intake (ADI) has not been specifically established, but it is generally regarded as safe based on historical consumption data. Dermal exposure is unlikely to cause irritation or sensitization, and inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility. The risk profile does not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Naringin is valued for its ability to impart a natural bitterness that enhances the authenticity of citrus flavors. It synergizes well with other citrus compounds like limonene and citral. Formulators should be cautious of its bitterness, which can dominate if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in non-citrus applications where a hint of bitterness could add depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on naringin is well-established, with extensive research supporting its sensory and safety profiles. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific usage levels can vary. Regulatory information is comprehensive, with minor variations in regional approvals.

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
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)

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 16:04:54 GMT (p2)