FlavScents AInsights Entry for Spearmint Oil Scotch (CAS: 91770-24-0)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Spearmint oil scotch is a natural complex material derived from the distillation of the aerial parts of the Mentha spicata plant. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for spearmint oil scotch is 91770-24-0. It does not have a specific FEMA number as it is a complex mixture. Other identifiers include its use in flavor and fragrance applications, often referenced in industry standards and regulatory documents.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Spearmint oil scotch is characterized by its fresh, minty, and slightly sweet aroma, which is reminiscent of the spearmint plant. The intensity of its odor is moderate to strong, making it a prominent impact note in formulations. It is commonly used to impart a cooling sensation and is often described as having a clean and invigorating scent. The taste and odor thresholds are not clearly reported, but it is known for its ability to enhance freshness and provide a natural minty flavor in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Spearmint oil scotch is naturally sourced from the Mentha spicata plant, commonly known as spearmint. The oil is obtained through steam distillation of the plant's leaves and stems. This process captures the essential oils, which are responsible for the characteristic minty aroma. Spearmint oil is widely recognized as a natural flavor and fragrance, aligning with consumer preferences for natural products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Spearmint oil scotch is extensively used in flavor applications, particularly in confectionery, chewing gum, oral care products, and beverages. It serves as a primary flavoring agent, providing a refreshing and cooling minty taste. Typical use levels in finished products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is generally stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under high heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, spearmint oil scotch is utilized in various product types, including personal care products, household cleaners, and air fresheners. It contributes to the top notes of a fragrance, offering a fresh and uplifting scent. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the product and desired fragrance profile. Its volatility makes it suitable for top note applications, providing an initial burst of freshness.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
Spearmint oil scotch typically contains major constituents such as carvone, limonene, and menthone. The composition can vary based on factors like geographic origin, harvest time, and processing methods. Carvone is often the dominant component, contributing significantly to the oil's characteristic aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, spearmint oil scotch is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and is permitted for use in food and fragrance applications. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for its use, often aligning with international standards. In Latin America, regulations may vary, but it is commonly accepted in flavor and fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, spearmint oil scotch 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 safe, but it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals. IFRA provides guidelines for its use in fragrances to minimize risks. Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but occupational exposure should be managed to prevent potential respiratory irritation.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Spearmint oil scotch is valued for its ability to impart a natural minty freshness. It synergizes well with other mint oils and citrus notes, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential for oxidation, which can affect stability. It is often under-used in complex fragrance compositions where its fresh top note can provide a unique twist.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on spearmint oil scotch is well-established, with extensive documentation in flavor and fragrance applications. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific numeric values for thresholds and exposure limits are less frequently reported. Regulatory guidelines are generally harmonized across major markets, though some regional variations exist.
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 2026-10-21 11:03:11 GMT (p2)