castoreum absolute replacer

Castoreum absolute replacer is a synthetic fragrance component designed to replicate the distinctive aromatic qualities of natural castoreum, an extract traditionally sourced from beaver glands. This synthetic variant exhibits a warm, leathery, smoky, and animalic odor profile without relying on animal-derived raw materials. It provides a phenolic and burnt resinous character that enhances a variety of perfumery compositions. Known under several trade names such as 'castoreum 172 SA' by Firmenich and 'castoreum givco 116' by Givaudan, this replacer allows formulators to achieve rich animalic facets ethically. For detailed chemical data, it is linked under its PubChem entry. The formulation typically incorporates plant-based naturals and synthetic molecules to achieve authenticity while maintaining sustainability in fragrance design.

Natural castoreum occurs biologically as a secretion from beaver castor sacs and has a long history of use in perfumery for its complex animalic and leathery notes. Castoreum absolute replacer, being a synthetic alternative, replicates these sensory attributes without animal products. Its versatile warm and powerful profile makes it suitable for a wide array of fragrance families, including chypres, tobacco blends, leather accords, and fougère types. Regulatory frameworks such as the IFRA (International Fragrance Association) Code of Practice (Global) recommend usage limits of up to 3.0% concentration in fragrance formulations to ensure consumer safety. This replacer is not approved for flavoring purposes, limiting its use strictly to fragrance applications.

Castoreum absolute replacer exhibits a flash point of 93°C (200°F), indicating moderate thermal stability beneficial for fragrance formulation. It dissolves readily in alcohol-based solvents but is insoluble in water, which influences its incorporation into primarily alcohol or oil-based systems. Its complex composition yields a multifaceted odor profile featuring leathery, smoky, animalic, and phenolic notes, with burnt resinous undertones. These attributes support its role as a potent base note in perfumery, contributing warm depth and longevity. The synthetic nature allows for consistent quality and safety profiles while avoiding odor variability typical of natural extracts.

Export Tariff Code:	3302.90.0010
Wikipedia:	View

Safety information

Hazards identification
Classification of the substance or mixture
GHS Classification in accordance with 29 CFR 1910 (OSHA HCS)
None found.
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Pictogram
Hazard statement(s)
None found.
Precautionary statement(s)
None found.
Oral/Parenteral Toxicity:
Not determined
Dermal Toxicity:
Not determined
Inhalation Toxicity:
Not determined

Safety in use information

Category:
fragrance agents
IFRA Code of Practice Notification of the 49th Amendment to the IFRA Code of Practice
Recommendation for castoreum absolute replacer usage levels up to:
	3.0000 % in the fragrance concentrate.
Recommendation for castoreum absolute replacer flavor usage levels up to:
	not for flavor use.

Safety references

None found