FlavScents AInsights Entry: Dandelion Root (CAS: 68990-74-9)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Dandelion Root
- CAS Number: 68990-74-9
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: Not applicable
- Material Type: Natural complex material (extract)
- Source: Derived from the root of the dandelion plant (Taraxacum officinale)
- Key Constituents: Includes inulin, sesquiterpene lactones, and phenolic acids. Composition varies by origin, harvest, and processing.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Dandelion root extract is characterized by a mildly bitter taste with earthy and nutty undertones. It is often described as having a roasted flavor profile, which can be reminiscent of coffee when roasted. The intensity is moderate, and it serves as a background realism note in formulations. Odor thresholds are not well-documented, but the extract is primarily used for its flavor rather than aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Dandelion root is naturally sourced from the dandelion plant, which is widespread across temperate regions. The root is typically harvested, dried, and sometimes roasted to enhance its flavor profile. It is considered a natural flavoring agent due to its direct extraction from plant material. The formation of its characteristic flavor compounds can be attributed to enzymatic processes during drying and roasting.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Dandelion root extract is used in flavor applications such as herbal teas, coffee substitutes, and certain alcoholic beverages. It functions as a bittering agent and provides depth and complexity to flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished products range from 50 to 500 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust formulations. The extract is stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under prolonged exposure to high heat.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
While not commonly used in mainstream perfumery, dandelion root extract can be found in niche fragrance products where it contributes an earthy, herbal note. It is typically used in trace amounts to add realism and complexity. The extract is considered a base note due to its low volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
- Inulin: A polysaccharide contributing to the root's sweetness and texture.
- Sesquiterpene Lactones: Responsible for the characteristic bitterness.
- Phenolic Acids: Contribute to antioxidant properties and flavor complexity.
Composition varies significantly based on geographic origin and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use.
- European Union: Permitted as a natural flavoring substance under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
- United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Usage varies; generally accepted in Japan and China with specific guidelines.
- Latin America: Recognized under MERCOSUR regulations with some country-specific variations.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Considered safe at typical use levels; no specific ADI established.
- Dermal Exposure: Low risk of irritation or sensitization; not commonly used in topical applications.
- Inhalation Exposure: Minimal risk due to low volatility; occupational exposure is not a significant concern.
Risk profiles are similar for both food and fragrance applications, with no major safety concerns reported.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Dandelion root extract is valued for its ability to impart a natural, earthy bitterness that enhances the complexity of flavor profiles. It synergizes well with roasted and nutty flavors. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to excessive bitterness. It is often underutilized in non-traditional applications, offering potential for innovation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
Data on dandelion root extract is well-established for its traditional uses, though some variability exists due to natural composition differences. Industry practices are generally consistent, but documentation on specific sensory thresholds and toxicological data is limited.
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 2026-06-25 15:34:31 GMT (p2)