FlavScents AInsights Entry: Matcha Tea Essence (CAS: 68916-73-4)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Matcha Tea Essence
- CAS Number: 68916-73-4
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Material Type: Natural complex material derived from Camellia sinensis leaves
- Description: Matcha tea essence is a natural complex material, typically obtained through the extraction of green tea leaves. It is characterized by its rich, green color and fine powder form. The composition of matcha tea essence can vary significantly depending on the origin, harvest time, and processing methods used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Matcha tea essence is renowned for its distinctive sensory attributes. It possesses a rich, umami flavor profile with grassy, sweet, and slightly astringent notes. The aroma is fresh and vegetal, often described as reminiscent of freshly cut grass or steamed green vegetables. The intensity of the flavor and aroma can vary, but it is generally considered to have a moderate to strong impact. Matcha tea essence is often used as a character-impact note in flavor formulations, providing authenticity and depth.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Matcha tea essence is derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, specifically those used to produce matcha green tea. The leaves are shade-grown, which increases chlorophyll content and enhances the green color. After harvesting, the leaves are steamed, dried, and ground into a fine powder. This process preserves the natural compounds responsible for matcha's unique flavor and aroma. Matcha tea essence is considered a natural flavor due to its direct derivation from plant material.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Matcha tea essence is widely used in flavor applications, particularly in beverages, confectionery, and dairy products. It serves as a primary flavor in matcha-flavored products and as a modifier in blends. Typical use levels in finished products range from 50 to 500 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is stable under moderate heat and neutral pH conditions but may degrade under high heat or acidic environments.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrances, matcha tea essence is used to impart a fresh, green note, often in natural or green-themed perfumes. It is typically used in small amounts as a modifier or trace realism note. The essence contributes to the top and middle notes of a fragrance, providing a fresh and invigorating quality. Concentration ranges are generally qualitative, with usage depending on the desired effect and product type.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
- Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)
- L-theanine
- Caffeine
- Chlorophyll
- Catechins
The composition of matcha tea essence can vary based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and processing methods. These constituents contribute to the characteristic flavor and aroma profile of matcha.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Matcha tea essence is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and beverages.
- European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for use as a flavoring substance.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Widely accepted in Japan and other ASEAN countries as a traditional flavoring.
- Latin America: Generally accepted, but specific regulations may vary by country.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Matcha tea essence is considered safe for oral consumption within typical use levels. The acceptable daily intake (ADI) is not specifically established, but it is generally consumed in traditional diets without adverse effects. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is not associated with significant irritation or sensitization, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to low volatility, with no significant occupational hazards reported.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Matcha tea essence is valued for its authentic flavor and aroma, making it a popular choice in both traditional and innovative formulations. It pairs well with dairy, chocolate, and citrus flavors, enhancing complexity and depth. Formulators should be mindful of its sensitivity to high heat and acidic conditions, which can degrade its sensory qualities. It is often under-utilized in savory applications, where it can add a unique umami note.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on matcha tea essence is well-established, with extensive documentation in both scientific literature and industry practice. However, variability in composition due to natural factors is a known consideration. Regulatory guidelines are generally harmonized, though specific country regulations should be verified.
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
Citation hooks: (internal)
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 2026-03-25 08:24:39 GMT (p2)