FlavScents AInsights Entry: Clove Bud Absolute (CAS: 8000-34-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Clove bud absolute is a natural complex material derived from the buds of the clove tree, Syzygium aromaticum. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for clove bud absolute is 8000-34-8. It is commonly used in both flavor and fragrance industries due to its rich, spicy aroma. The material does not have a specific FEMA number as it is a complex mixture rather than a single compound. Other identifiers include its FL number and CoE number, which are used in regulatory contexts.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Clove bud absolute is characterized by its warm, spicy, and sweet aroma with a hint of woody undertones. It is often described as having a strong, penetrating scent that is both comforting and invigorating. The intensity of its aroma makes it a prominent impact note in formulations. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, clove bud absolute is known for its potent sensory impact, often used in small quantities to achieve the desired effect.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Clove bud absolute is obtained from the unopened flower buds of the clove tree, primarily grown in Indonesia, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. The buds are harvested and subjected to solvent extraction to produce the absolute. This material is considered a natural flavor and fragrance due to its direct derivation from plant sources. The composition of clove bud absolute can vary based on the geographical origin, harvest time, and extraction method.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Clove bud absolute is widely used in flavor applications, particularly in spice blends, bakery products, and beverages. It serves as a key impact note, providing warmth and depth to flavor profiles. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.5 to 20 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is stable under heat but may oxidize over time, affecting its sensory properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, clove bud absolute is utilized in oriental and spicy fragrance families. It acts as a middle note, providing warmth and complexity. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the formulation. Its volatility is moderate, allowing it to blend well with other middle and base notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

Clove bud absolute typically contains eugenol, eugenyl acetate, and caryophyllene as major constituents. The exact composition can vary significantly based on factors such as origin and processing methods. These constituents contribute to the characteristic spicy and woody aroma of the absolute.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, clove bud absolute is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The UK follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for natural flavor materials, while in Latin America, regulations may vary, with Brazil and MERCOSUR having their own standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, clove bud absolute is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not clearly reported but generally low due to its potent flavor. Dermal exposure in fragrances may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, and it is subject to IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is generally low risk, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Clove bud absolute is valued for its ability to impart warmth and complexity to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other spice and woody notes. Formulators should be cautious of its strong impact, as overuse can dominate a blend. It is often under-utilized in subtle applications where its full potential can be realized.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on clove bud absolute is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical uses. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data may vary by region and require careful verification. Industry practices are generally consistent, though some undocumented variations exist.

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 17:42:35 GMT (p2)