FlavScents AInsights Entry for Osmanthus Fragrans Flower Extract (CAS: 92347-21-2)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Osmanthus fragrans flower extract is a natural complex material derived from the flowers of the Osmanthus fragrans plant. It is commonly known as sweet osmanthus or fragrant olive. The CAS number for this extract is 92347-21-2. As a natural extract, it does not have a single IUPAC name or molecular formula. Instead, it is composed of a variety of chemical constituents that contribute to its unique sensory properties. The extract is often used in both flavor and fragrance applications due to its complex and appealing aroma profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Osmanthus fragrans flower extract is renowned for its delicate and complex aroma, characterized by floral, fruity, and apricot-like notes. It is often described as having a sweet, creamy, and slightly leathery scent with hints of tea and honey. The intensity of the aroma is moderate, making it suitable for use as both an impact note and a background modifier in formulations. The extract's unique sensory profile makes it a valuable component in creating sophisticated and nuanced flavor and fragrance compositions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Osmanthus fragrans is native to Asia, particularly China, where it is widely cultivated for its fragrant flowers. The flowers are harvested and processed to produce the extract, which captures the essence of the plant's natural aroma. The formation of the extract involves careful extraction techniques to preserve the delicate balance of volatile compounds. This extract is often used in products labeled as "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its botanical origin and minimal processing.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, osmanthus fragrans flower extract is used to impart a floral and fruity character to a variety of products, including teas, desserts, and confectionery. It serves as a functional ingredient that enhances the overall flavor profile by adding complexity and depth. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.5 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. The extract is relatively stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under prolonged exposure to high heat or acidic environments.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Osmanthus fragrans flower extract is a popular ingredient in the fragrance industry, where it is used in a variety of product types, including perfumes, body lotions, and scented candles. It is often incorporated into floral and fruity fragrance families, providing a unique and sophisticated aroma. The extract can be used as a trace realism note or as a prominent impact note, depending on the formulation. It contributes primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of osmanthus fragrans flower extract include ionones, linalool, and various esters, which contribute to its characteristic aroma. The composition of the extract can vary significantly based on factors such as the geographical origin of the flowers, the time of harvest, and the extraction method used. This variability should be considered when formulating with the extract to ensure consistency in the final product.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, osmanthus fragrans flower 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 its use in flavors is permitted. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom aligns with the EU regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, the extract is commonly used in Japan and China, where it is considered a traditional ingredient. In Latin America, its use is generally accepted, but specific regulations may vary by country.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Osmanthus fragrans flower extract is considered safe for use in both flavor and fragrance applications when used within recommended levels. For oral exposure, the extract has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, with a low risk of irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is also considered safe, with no significant occupational hazards identified. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no major differences in safety considerations.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Osmanthus fragrans flower extract is valued for its ability to impart a unique and sophisticated aroma to both flavors and fragrances. It blends well with other floral and fruity notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the formulation. Formulators should be mindful of the extract's variability and ensure consistency by sourcing from reputable suppliers. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can overwhelm other components, and underuse, which may result in a lack of impact. Balancing the extract with complementary ingredients is key to achieving the desired sensory profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on osmanthus fragrans flower extract is well-established, with extensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are generally consistent, although some variability in composition is noted due to natural factors. Known data gaps are minimal, and regulatory ambiguities are rare, making this extract a reliable choice for formulators.
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 2026-06-17 20:04:14 GMT (p2)
