FlavScents AInsights Entry: Yuzu Peel Oil

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Yuzu peel oil is a natural complex material derived from the peel of the yuzu fruit (Citrus junos). It is not assigned a specific CAS number due to its complex nature. The oil is commonly used in both flavor and fragrance industries for its unique sensory properties. As a natural complex material, it does not have a single molecular formula or molecular weight. The composition of yuzu peel oil can vary significantly depending on factors such as the origin of the fruit, the harvest season, and the extraction method used.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Yuzu peel oil is renowned for its fresh, citrusy aroma with a distinctive tartness that sets it apart from other citrus oils. The odor is often described as a blend of grapefruit and mandarin with floral undertones. In terms of flavor, it imparts a bright, tangy taste with a hint of bitterness. The oil is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a refreshing and uplifting character. The sensory intensity is moderate to strong, making it suitable for both prominent and background roles in complex blends.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Yuzu peel oil is naturally sourced from the peel of the yuzu fruit, which is primarily cultivated in Japan, Korea, and China. The oil is extracted through cold pressing or steam distillation of the fruit's peel. Yuzu is often used in traditional Asian cuisines and is gaining popularity in Western markets for its unique flavor profile. The oil's designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" is supported by its direct extraction from plant material without synthetic modification.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Yuzu peel oil is widely used in flavor applications, particularly in beverages, confectionery, and culinary products. It serves as a key ingredient in citrus flavor blends, offering a unique twist to traditional citrus notes. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 5 to 50 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The oil is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under prolonged heat exposure, necessitating careful formulation considerations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, yuzu peel oil is valued for its fresh, invigorating scent and is commonly used in citrus, floral, and aquatic fragrance families. It acts as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness that enhances the overall fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products vary from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired olfactory impact. The oil's volatility makes it an excellent choice for creating light, refreshing scents.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

Yuzu peel oil is composed of several key constituents, including limonene, gamma-terpinene, and alpha-pinene, which contribute to its characteristic aroma and flavor. The composition can vary based on factors such as geographic origin and extraction method. Limonene is typically the most abundant component, followed by other terpenes and aldehydes that enhance the oil's sensory profile.

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

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, yuzu peel oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and beverages. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, with specific guidelines for its use in flavorings. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, particularly Japan and China, yuzu peel oil is widely accepted in both food and fragrance applications. In Latin America, regulatory acceptance varies, with Brazil and MERCOSUR countries generally aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Yuzu peel oil is considered safe for oral exposure when used within recommended levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though some individuals may experience irritation or sensitization. The oil's volatility requires consideration of inhalation exposure, particularly in occupational settings. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant safety concerns reported.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Yuzu peel oil is prized for its ability to impart a unique citrus character that differentiates products in both flavor and fragrance markets. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral notes, enhancing complexity and freshness. Formulators should be mindful of its volatility and potential for degradation under heat, ensuring proper storage and handling. Overuse can lead to overpowering citrus notes, while underuse may result in a lack of desired impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on yuzu peel oil is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific numeric values for certain safety parameters may be lacking. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological studies and region-specific regulatory nuances, which should be considered when formulating products for diverse markets.

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

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 2026-02-12 16:32:01 GMT (p2)