FlavScents AInsights Entry: Ipomoea Batatas Root Extract (CAS: 223749-11-9)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Ipomoea batatas root extract, commonly known as sweet potato root extract, is a natural complex material derived from the roots of the Ipomoea batatas plant. This extract is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for this extract is 223749-11-9. It does not have a specific FEMA number or other identifiers like FL or CoE numbers due to its complex nature. As a natural extract, it is characterized by its diverse composition, which can vary significantly depending on the origin, harvest, and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
The sensory profile of Ipomoea batatas root extract is characterized by its mild, earthy aroma with subtle sweet undertones. It is often described as having a starchy, slightly nutty scent that can add depth and complexity to flavor and fragrance formulations. The intensity of the aroma is generally moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in both flavor and fragrance applications. Specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, but the extract is typically used to impart a natural, earthy character.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Ipomoea batatas root extract is naturally sourced from the roots of the sweet potato plant, Ipomoea batatas, which is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. The formation of its characteristic aroma and flavor compounds occurs through natural biosynthetic pathways within the plant. This extract is often used in products labeled as "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its plant-based origin.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, Ipomoea batatas root extract is used to impart a natural, earthy sweetness to a variety of products, including baked goods, beverages, and confectionery. It serves as a functional ingredient that enhances the overall flavor profile by adding depth and complexity. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 50 to 200 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The extract is generally stable under typical processing conditions, but its flavor profile may be affected by high heat or extreme pH levels.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, Ipomoea batatas root extract is valued for its ability to provide a natural, earthy base note. It is commonly used in fragrance families such as woody, oriental, and gourmand. The extract acts as a modifier or background note, contributing to the overall complexity of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are qualitative, as the extract is often used in trace amounts to achieve the desired effect. Its volatility is moderate, making it suitable for use as a middle to base note.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of Ipomoea batatas root extract include a variety of carbohydrates, phenolic compounds, and volatile organic compounds. Major constituents may include sugars such as glucose and fructose, as well as phenolic acids like chlorogenic acid. The composition of the extract can vary significantly 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, Ipomoea batatas root extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food products. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, and its use in flavors is permitted. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom aligns with the EU post-Brexit. In Asia, the extract is accepted in countries like Japan and China, although specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries such as Brazil and members of MERCOSUR also permit its use, but regional differences in regulatory frameworks should be considered.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
The safety of Ipomoea batatas root extract is generally well-established, with no significant toxicological concerns reported at typical use levels. For oral exposure in flavor applications, the extract is considered safe within the typical use range, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is also considered safe, with no reports of irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to the extract's moderate volatility. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Ipomoea batatas root extract is valued for its ability to impart a natural, earthy sweetness and complexity to formulations. It synergizes well with other natural extracts and can enhance the authenticity of both flavor and fragrance products. Formulators should be aware of its potential to overpower delicate notes if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in formulations where a subtle, natural character is desired.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on Ipomoea batatas root extract is well-established, with consistent findings across various studies and industry reports. While specific numeric values for certain parameters may not be available, industry practices provide reliable guidance for its use. Known data gaps include detailed sensory thresholds and comprehensive toxicological profiles, but these do not significantly impact its safe use in typical applications.
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
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 2026-11-05 13:35:21 GMT (p2)