FlavScents AInsights Entry: Schinus Molle Seed Extract (CAS: 94334-31-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Schinus molle seed extract, Peruvian pepper extract
- CAS Number: 94334-31-3
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: Not applicable
- Material Type: Natural complex material derived from the seeds of the Schinus molle tree, commonly known as the Peruvian pepper tree.
- Source: The extract is obtained through various extraction methods from the seeds of Schinus molle, a tree native to South America.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Schinus molle seed extract is characterized by its warm, spicy, and peppery aroma, reminiscent of black pepper but with a slightly sweeter and more resinous undertone. The extract is often used to impart a spicy and exotic note in both flavor and fragrance applications. The intensity of the aroma can vary depending on the concentration and the method of extraction used. It is typically used as a background realism note or as a modifier to enhance the complexity of a formulation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Schinus molle, commonly known as the Peruvian pepper tree, is native to the Andean deserts of South America. The seeds of this tree are harvested and processed to produce the extract. The formation of the extract involves mechanical or solvent extraction methods, capturing the essential oils and other volatile compounds present in the seeds. This extract is often labeled as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its direct derivation from plant material.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Schinus molle seed extract is used in various flavor categories, including savory, spice blends, and exotic fruit flavors. It serves as a functional component in flavor systems, providing a spicy and aromatic note that enhances the overall profile of the product. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 5 to 50 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. The extract is generally 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
In fragrance applications, Schinus molle seed extract is utilized in various fragrance families, including oriental, woody, and spicy compositions. It acts as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the complexity and depth of the fragrance. The extract is typically used in concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1% in the final product, depending on the desired olfactory impact. It is considered a middle note due to its moderate volatility and ability to blend well with both top and base notes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
- Major Constituents: Monoterpenes (e.g., α-pinene, β-pinene), sesquiterpenes, and phenolic compounds.
- Composition Variability: The composition of Schinus molle seed extract can vary significantly based on the geographical origin, harvest time, and extraction method used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage in flavors and fragrances is subject to general safety and regulatory compliance.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; considered under general flavoring and fragrance regulations.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Limited specific regulatory information; generally follows international safety standards.
- Latin America: Usage is generally accepted under local regulations, with specific approvals varying by country.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI established; usage should be guided by general safety assessments and industry practices.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe for use in fragrances; however, potential for irritation or sensitization should be evaluated, particularly in sensitive individuals.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered in manufacturing settings.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Schinus molle seed extract is valued for its unique spicy and aromatic profile, which can enhance both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other spice and woody notes, adding depth and complexity. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its intense aroma can dominate a blend. It is often underutilized in exotic and niche applications, where it can provide a distinctive character.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on Schinus molle seed extract is well-established in terms of sensory characteristics and typical applications. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data may be limited, necessitating reliance on general industry practices and safety assessments. Known data gaps include detailed compositional analysis and region-specific regulatory approvals.
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 2026-09-28 18:01:48 GMT (p2)