FlavScents AInsights Entry for Citrus Medica Vulgaris Peel Oil (CAS: 92346-90-2)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Citrus medica vulgaris peel oil, commonly known as citron peel oil, is a natural complex material derived from the peel of the citron fruit. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for this essential oil is 92346-90-2. While it does not have a specific FEMA number, it is recognized in the flavor and fragrance industry for its unique properties. Other identifiers include its listing in the IFRA standards and various industry databases.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Citrus medica vulgaris peel oil is characterized by its fresh, citrusy aroma with a slightly sweet and floral undertone. It is often described as having a bright, zesty, and uplifting scent, making it a popular choice in both flavor and fragrance applications. The intensity of its odor is moderate, providing a refreshing top note in formulations. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, it is typically used as an impact note to impart a natural citrus character.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
This essential oil is naturally sourced from the peel of the citron fruit, Citrus medica. The oil is obtained through cold pressing or steam distillation of the fruit's peel. As a natural product, it is often used in formulations labeled as "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance." The composition of the oil can vary significantly depending on the geographical origin, harvest time, and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Citrus medica vulgaris peel oil is widely used in flavor applications, particularly in citrus-flavored beverages, candies, and baked goods. It serves as a flavor enhancer, providing a fresh and authentic citrus note. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The oil is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to air.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, citron peel oil is valued for its bright and uplifting scent, fitting well within citrus, floral, and fresh fragrance families. It is commonly used in perfumes, colognes, and personal care products as a top note. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the product type and desired fragrance profile. The oil's volatility makes it an excellent choice for top note applications, providing an initial burst of freshness.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
Citrus medica vulgaris peel oil contains several key constituents, including limonene, citral, and linalool, which contribute to its characteristic aroma. The composition can vary, with limonene often being the predominant component. The presence of these constituents can fluctuate based on factors such as origin and processing, making it essential to verify specific profiles for formulation purposes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, citrus medica vulgaris peel oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and is included in the list of flavoring substances. The UK follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have their own regulatory frameworks, often aligning with international standards. In Latin America, Brazil and MERCOSUR countries also recognize its use in flavors and fragrances, with specific guidelines.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, citrus medica vulgaris peel oil is considered safe within the typical use levels in food products, with no specific ADI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, but it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, necessitating adherence to IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but occupational safety measures should be in place to minimize prolonged exposure to concentrated vapors.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Citrus medica vulgaris peel oil is prized for its ability to impart a natural citrus aroma and flavor. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral notes, enhancing the overall freshness of formulations. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential for oxidation, which can affect stability. It is often under-used in complex blends where its bright character can be overshadowed by heavier notes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on citrus medica vulgaris peel oil is well-established, with extensive documentation in flavor and fragrance literature. However, variability in composition due to natural factors is a known challenge, requiring careful sourcing and quality control. Regulatory guidelines are generally harmonized, but formulators should verify compliance with specific regional requirements.
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 2026-01-27 14:51:16 GMT (p2)