ambergris extract

Full Material List

N/A

Identifiers

CAS (Single)	84836-94-2
FEMA	N/A
EINECS	N/A
Synonyms	ambergris extract
JECFA Food Flavoring	N/A
JECFA Food Additive	N/A
DG SANTE Food Flavourings	N/A
DG SANTE Food Contact Materials	N/A
FDA UNII
CoE Number	N/A
XlogP3-AA	N/A
Molecular Weight	N/A
Molecular Formula	N/A

Properties

Food Chemicals Codex Listed	No
Appearance	N/A
Assay	N/A
Specific Gravity	N/A
Lbs/Gal (est)	N/A
Refractive Index	N/A
Melting Point	N/A
Boiling Point	N/A
Flash Point	N/A
Acid Value	N/A
Vapor Pressure	N/A
Vapor Density	N/A
logP (o/w)	N/A
Soluble In	N/A
Occurrence	not found in nature

Organoleptic

Organoleptic Notes	Odor and/or flavor descriptions from others (if found).
Odor	N/A
Flavor	N/A

AInsights BETA

FlavScents AInsights Entry: Ambergris Extract (CAS: 84836-94-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Ambergris extract is a complex natural material derived from the digestive secretions of sperm whales. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for ambergris extract is 84836-94-2. Due to its natural origin, it does not have a specific IUPAC name or molecular formula. Ambergris is known for its unique scent, which is highly valued in perfumery. It is important to note that the composition of ambergris extract can vary significantly depending on its origin, age, and processing methods.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ambergris extract is renowned for its complex and rich olfactory profile. It is often described as having a sweet, earthy, and marine-like aroma with subtle animalic undertones. The intensity of its scent can vary, but it is generally considered to have a moderate to strong diffusion. In perfumery, ambergris is used as a fixative and to add depth and warmth to fragrance compositions. Its sensory role is often as an impact note or a background enhancer, providing a sense of luxury and sophistication.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ambergris is naturally formed in the digestive system of sperm whales. It is believed to originate as a protective secretion to ease the passage of hard, sharp objects consumed by the whale, such as squid beaks. Over time, this secretion hardens and ages, eventually being expelled by the whale and often found floating in the ocean or washed ashore. Due to its natural formation process, ambergris can be classified as a "natural fragrance" material.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Ambergris extract is rarely used in flavors due to its high cost and limited availability. When used, it is typically found in luxury or niche products where its unique aroma can enhance the overall sensory experience. The typical use levels in flavors are not well-documented, but it is generally used at very low concentrations, often in the range of 0.1 to 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering other flavor components. Its stability in flavor systems is generally good, although it may be sensitive to high heat and acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Ambergris extract is highly prized in the fragrance industry for its ability to enhance and fix other scents. It is commonly used in high-end perfumes and is associated with the oriental and woody fragrance families. Ambergris acts as a base note, providing longevity and depth to the fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from trace amounts up to 1%, depending on the desired effect and formulation. Its volatility is low, contributing to its role as a base note.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

Ambergris extract contains a variety of constituents, with ambrein being one of the most significant. Other components may include various terpenes and alcohols. The exact composition can vary based on factors such as the age of the ambergris and environmental conditions during its formation. It is important for formulators to consider these variations when using ambergris extract in their products.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, ambergris is not explicitly listed as a FEMA GRAS substance due to its rarity and unique origin. In the European Union, it is not commonly used in food products, and its use in fragrances is subject to IFRA guidelines. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia and Latin America, the regulatory status of ambergris can vary, with some countries imposing restrictions due to conservation concerns related to sperm whales.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Ambergris extract is primarily used in fragrances, where dermal exposure is the main concern. It is generally considered safe for use in perfumes, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization. Oral exposure is rare due to its limited use in flavors. Inhalation exposure is minimal, given its low volatility. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications differ, with fragrance use being more common and better studied.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ambergris extract is valued for its unique scent and fixative properties. It synergizes well with other base notes and can enhance the longevity of a fragrance. Formulators should be cautious of its strong aroma, which can dominate a composition if overused. It is often under-used due to its cost and rarity, but when used judiciously, it can elevate a fragrance to a luxury status.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ambergris extract is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and use in fragrances. However, its use in flavors is less documented, and regulatory information can vary by region. Industry practices often rely on historical usage and anecdotal evidence due to the limited availability of comprehensive 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
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 2026-09-28 13:48:59 GMT (p2)

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