FlavScents AInsights Entry: Rosemary Absolute (CAS: 8000-25-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Rosemary Absolute
• CAS Number: 8000-25-7
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL Number: Not available; CoE Number: Not available; IFRA Reference: Not available
• Material Type: Rosemary absolute is a natural complex material derived from the leaves of Rosmarinus officinalis. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents.
• Source: Typically obtained through solvent extraction of rosemary leaves.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Rosemary absolute is characterized by its strong, herbaceous, and woody aroma with a hint of camphor. It is often described as having a fresh, green, and slightly balsamic scent. The intensity of the odor is high, making it a potent impact note in formulations. The absolute is primarily used for its top to middle note contributions in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Rosemary absolute is derived from the leaves of the rosemary plant (Rosmarinus officinalis), which is native to the Mediterranean region. The formation of its characteristic aroma compounds occurs naturally in the plant and is influenced by factors such as climate, soil, and harvest time. Rosemary is widely recognized as a natural flavor and fragrance material.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Rosemary absolute is used in various flavor categories, including savory, herbal, and spice blends. It serves as a functional component in flavor systems, providing a fresh and aromatic note. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially overpowering other flavor components. It is relatively stable under heat but may oxidize over time, affecting its sensory profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrances, rosemary absolute is utilized across several fragrance families, such as fougère, chypre, and herbal compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the freshness and complexity of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges are from 0.1% to 2% in the final product, depending on the desired intensity. It is primarily a top to middle note due to its volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

Rosemary absolute contains several key constituents, including 1,8-cineole, camphor, α-pinene, and borneol. The composition can vary significantly based on the plant's origin, harvest conditions, and extraction process. These constituents contribute to the characteristic aroma and functional properties of the absolute.

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

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Rosemary absolute is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use by FEMA. Specific regulatory details for fragrance use are less defined.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for use in food flavors. Its status in fragrances aligns with general EU cosmetic regulations.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the regulatory status remains aligned with the EU for both flavors and fragrances.
• Asia: In Japan and China, rosemary absolute is permitted in flavors and fragrances, subject to local regulations.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in flavors and fragrances, with specific regulations varying by country.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, rosemary absolute is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances may pose a risk of irritation or sensitization, particularly in sensitive individuals. IFRA provides guidelines to mitigate these risks. Inhalation exposure is generally low risk, but occupational exposure should be monitored to prevent respiratory irritation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Rosemary absolute is valued for its potent and fresh aroma, making it a versatile component in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other herbal and citrus notes. Formulators should be cautious of its strong intensity, which can easily dominate a blend if overused. It is often underutilized in complex fragrance compositions where its fresh note can enhance overall balance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on rosemary absolute is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and typical use levels. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals for fragrance use and detailed toxicological data. Industry practices often rely on historical usage and expert judgment in these areas.

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 2026-10-29 19:21:47 GMT (p2)