castoreum extract

Castoreum extract is a natural material obtained from the castor spp., representing a complex mixture used predominantly in flavor and fragrance industries. This extract exhibits a distinctive animal-like odor and flavor profile, contributing unique sensory characteristics to formulations. Known also under synonyms such as castor spp. extract, oils of castoreum, or castoreum oil, it is often valued for its intense aroma. The extract appears as a resinous substance and links to the controlled vocabulary identified in PubChem under castoreum compounds, which have been studied for their chemical constituents. Its sourcing involves the careful collection from castor species, ensuring the preservation of its key sensory components essential for its uses in perfumery and flavoring.

Castoreum extract is naturally obtained from castor spp., where it serves a role in the species' biology possibly related to scent marking. Its distinctive animal-like odor finds applications in high-end perfumery and as a flavoring agent in certain food products, contributing depth and complexity to aromatic profiles. The extract's use follows standards and recommendations such as those in the IFRA (Global) Code of Practice, which guides safe utilization levels in fragrances and flavors. Within these regulated frameworks, castoreum extract functions as a valued natural ingredient for animalic and leathery notes that are difficult to replicate synthetically.

The extract is resinous with a complex chemical composition that imparts its characteristic strong animal-like aroma and flavor. These properties influence its solubility, volatility, and blending behavior in formulations. Castoreum extract exhibits moderate volatility, allowing it to serve both as a top and base note in fragrances. Its chemical constituents contribute to stability issues that formulators must consider, such as susceptibility to oxidation or changes under heat during processing. Understanding these aspects is critical to optimizing castoreum's performance in flavor and fragrance products, ensuring consistency and the desired sensory effect.

FDA Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS):	View
Export Tariff Code:	0510
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:
flavor and fragrance agents
RIFM Fragrance Material Safety Assessment: Search
IFRA Code of Practice Notification of the 49th Amendment to the IFRA Code of Practice
Recommendation for castoreum extract flavor usage levels up to:
	400.0000 ppm in the finished product.

Safety references

EPA Substance Registry Services (TSCA):8023-83-4

EPA ACToR:Toxicology Data

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS):Registry

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases:Data

castor spp. extract

Chemidplus:0008023834