liver powder

Liver powder is a dried product derived from animal liver tissue, primarily utilized in food applications for its characteristic meaty odor and flavor reminiscent of liver. It is often employed to impart rich, savory notes to culinary formulations. This substance is classified as a food additive and does not have specific hazardous classifications under common safety regulations. Key synonyms are limited, but it may be referred to simply as powdered liver. The compound is documented in chemical databases such as PubChem. Liver powder is typically obtained by spray drying or grinding processed liver to a fine powder, preserving its organoleptic properties for flavor use.

Liver powder naturally originates from the livers of livestock such as cattle, pigs, or poultry, reflecting the biological composition of these animals. It is used predominantly as a food additive to introduce meaty or savory flavour notes in processed foods. While it enhances dishes with liver-like sensory attributes, regulatory guidance such as the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (US) indicates no hazard classification. This suggests its usage in food products is considered low risk from a safety perspective. However, it is not recommended for use in fragrance formulations nor officially approved for flavoring at specified usage levels, indicating industry caution in direct flavor applications.

Liver powder consists largely of dehydrated proteins and nucleotides characteristic of animal liver tissue, which contribute to its strong, meaty aroma. The drying process reduces moisture content substantially, aiding in stability and shelf life. Its physical form as a fine powder facilitates incorporation into dry mixes or seasoning blends. Chemically, the presence of amino acids and other organics responsible for savory flavors influences its behavior in formulations, including solubility and interaction with other ingredients. The powder's lack of volatility means it imparts flavor primarily through direct taste and smell rather than evaporation, limiting its use to applications where contact with the food matrix occurs.

None found

FDA Listing of Food Additive Status:

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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:
food additive
Recommendation for liver powder usage levels up to:
	not for fragrance use.
Recommendation for liver powder flavor usage levels up to:
	not for flavor use.

Safety references

None found