FlavScents AInsights Entry: Sesame Absolute CO2 Extract (CAS: 8008-74-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Sesame absolute CO2 extract is a complex natural material derived from the seeds of the sesame plant (Sesamum indicum). It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for sesame absolute is 8008-74-0. This extract does not have a specific FEMA number, as it is typically categorized under broader sesame oil entries. Other identifiers such as FL number or CoE number are not specifically assigned to this extract. The composition of sesame absolute CO2 extract can vary significantly depending on the origin, harvest, and processing methods used.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Sesame absolute CO2 extract is characterized by its rich, nutty, and slightly sweet aroma, reminiscent of toasted sesame seeds. The intensity of the odor is moderate to strong, with a warm, comforting diffusion. It is often used as an impact note in formulations to impart a realistic sesame seed aroma. The taste threshold data for sesame absolute is not clearly reported, but it is known for its ability to enhance the nutty and roasted notes in flavor applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Sesame absolute CO2 extract is naturally sourced from the seeds of the sesame plant, which is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. The extract is obtained through supercritical CO2 extraction, a process that preserves the delicate aroma compounds by avoiding high temperatures. This method is particularly valued for producing a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designation, as it does not involve synthetic solvents or high-heat processing.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, sesame absolute CO2 extract is used to impart a nutty, roasted character to a variety of products, including baked goods, sauces, and savory snacks. It serves as a functional impact note, enhancing the authenticity of sesame flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product matrix. The extract is generally stable under typical food processing conditions, but care should be taken to protect it from prolonged exposure to high heat and oxidation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Sesame absolute CO2 extract is utilized in fragrance formulations to add a warm, nutty note, often in oriental and gourmand fragrance families. It acts as a modifier or trace realism component, contributing to the overall complexity of the scent profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect. The extract has moderate volatility, contributing primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

The key constituents of sesame absolute CO2 extract include sesamin, sesamol, and various fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acids. These compounds contribute to the characteristic aroma and functional properties of the extract. The composition can vary based on factors such as the geographical origin of the sesame seeds and the specific extraction process used.

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

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, sesame absolute CO2 extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors, although specific regulatory documentation may not be available for this exact extract. In the European Union, it falls under the broader category of sesame oil and related products, subject to Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom aligns closely with the EU, with no significant post-Brexit divergence reported. In Asia, particularly Japan and China, sesame extracts are commonly used in traditional foods and are generally accepted, though specific regulatory details may vary. In Latin America, the extract is used in accordance with local food safety regulations, often harmonized with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, sesame absolute CO2 extract is considered safe within the typical use levels in food products, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though individuals with sesame allergies should exercise caution. The extract is not known to be a significant sensitizer or irritant. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no major differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Sesame absolute CO2 extract is valued for its authentic sesame aroma and versatility in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other nutty and roasted notes, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be mindful of its potency and potential for overpowering other components if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in fragrance applications, where its unique profile can add depth and warmth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on sesame absolute CO2 extract is well-established in terms of sensory characteristics and typical applications. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data may be less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and broader sesame oil data. Known data gaps include precise sensory thresholds and detailed regulatory approvals for specific regions.

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 2026-11-05 17:33:31 GMT (p2)