FlavScents AInsights Entry for Gentian Absolute (CAS: 97676-22-7)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Gentian absolute is a natural complex material derived from the roots of the Gentiana lutea plant. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for gentian absolute is 97676-22-7. It does not have a specific FEMA number or IUPAC name due to its complex nature. Other identifiers such as FL number, CoE number, and IFRA reference are not typically assigned to such complex materials. The composition of gentian absolute can vary significantly depending on the origin, harvest time, and processing methods used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Gentian absolute is known for its intensely bitter taste and earthy, woody aroma. The odor is often described as deep and complex, with nuances of root and herbal notes. It is primarily used as a bittering agent in flavor applications, providing a characteristic impact note that enhances the authenticity of herbal and bitter profiles. The taste threshold for gentian absolute is not well-documented, but its potent bitterness means it is typically used in very low concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Gentian absolute is naturally sourced from the roots of the Gentiana lutea plant, which is native to the mountainous regions of central and southern Europe. The formation of gentian absolute involves the extraction of the root material, typically using solvents, to concentrate the aromatic and bitter constituents. This material is often used in products labeled as "natural flavor" due to its plant-based origin and traditional extraction methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Gentian absolute is primarily used in the flavor industry as a bittering agent. It is commonly found in alcoholic beverages such as bitters and vermouth, as well as in non-alcoholic beverages that require a bitter profile. The typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 10 ppm, depending on the desired intensity of bitterness. Gentian absolute is stable under a variety of conditions, including heat and pH variations, making it versatile for different formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, gentian absolute is used to impart earthy and woody notes, often serving as a base note in complex fragrance compositions. It is utilized in various product types, including perfumes, colognes, and personal care products. The concentration in fragrance formulations is typically low, as its intense aroma can dominate other notes. Gentian absolute contributes to the longevity and depth of a fragrance due to its low volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
Gentian absolute contains several key constituents, including amarogentin, gentiopicroside, and various terpenes. The exact composition can vary based on factors such as geographic origin and extraction method. These constituents are responsible for the material's characteristic bitterness and aromatic profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, gentian absolute is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, and its use is permitted in food and beverages. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for natural flavoring substances, which include gentian absolute. In Latin America, regulations may vary, but it is generally accepted in countries like Brazil under MERCOSUR guidelines.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Gentian absolute is considered safe for oral exposure when used within the recommended levels in food and beverages. The acceptable daily intake (ADI) and threshold of toxicological concern (TTC) are not explicitly defined, but its use in traditional products suggests a favorable safety profile. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, reducing occupational risks.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Gentian absolute is valued for its ability to impart a natural bitter profile, enhancing the authenticity of herbal and bitter formulations. It synergizes well with other botanical extracts and can be used to balance sweetness in complex flavor systems. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering bitterness. It is often under-utilized in non-alcoholic applications, where it can provide a sophisticated bitter note.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on gentian absolute is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and traditional uses. However, specific toxicological data and regulatory details may vary by region, and formulators should verify compliance with local regulations. Industry practices are generally consistent, but documentation on specific use levels and safety assessments could be more comprehensive.
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 2026-08-26 07:08:35 GMT (p2)