FlavScents AInsights Entry: Ginger Root Absolute (CAS: 8/7/07)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Ginger Root Absolute
- CAS Number: 8/7/07
- FEMA Number: Data not found
- Other Identifiers: Data not found
- Material Type: Natural complex material derived from the rhizomes of Zingiber officinale
- Description: Ginger root absolute is a concentrated extract obtained through solvent extraction of ginger rhizomes. It is characterized by its complex mixture of volatile and non-volatile compounds, contributing to its distinctive aroma and flavor profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Ginger root absolute is renowned for its warm, spicy, and slightly sweet aroma, reminiscent of fresh ginger. It exhibits a robust and intense character with a high diffusion rate, making it a potent impact note in both flavor and fragrance applications. The taste is similarly spicy with a hint of sweetness, often described as pungent and zesty. Specific odor and taste thresholds are not clearly reported, but its strong sensory impact suggests low threshold values.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Ginger root absolute is derived from the rhizomes of the ginger plant, Zingiber officinale, which is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. The formation of its characteristic compounds occurs naturally within the plant, primarily through enzymatic processes. As a natural extract, it qualifies for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under various regulatory frameworks.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Ginger root absolute is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in spice blends, beverages, and confectionery. It serves as a key impact note, providing warmth and spiciness. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 10 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application. It is generally stable under moderate heat and neutral pH but may degrade under extreme conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In perfumery, ginger root absolute is valued for its spicy and warm aroma, fitting well within oriental and spicy fragrance families. It acts as a middle note, providing depth and complexity. Typical concentrations in fragrance formulations range from trace amounts to 1%, depending on the desired effect. Its volatility is moderate, contributing to both the middle and base notes of a fragrance composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
- Zingiberene
- β-Sesquiphellandrene
- Gingerol
- Shogaol
The composition of ginger root absolute can vary significantly based on the origin, harvest time, and extraction process. These constituents are primarily responsible for its characteristic aroma and flavor.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use by FEMA. Specific fragrance regulations not detailed.
- European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use. Fragrance use follows IFRA guidelines.
- United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Specific regulations vary; generally accepted in Japan and China for flavor use.
- Latin America: Accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with specific regulations varying.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Generally considered safe at typical flavor use levels. No specific ADI or MSDI reported.
- Dermal Exposure: Potential for irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use levels in fragrances.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential occupational exposure; proper ventilation is recommended during handling.
Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications, with dermal exposure requiring more caution.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Ginger root absolute is prized for its ability to impart warmth and spiciness, making it a versatile ingredient in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with citrus, spice, and woody notes. Formulators should be cautious of its potency to avoid overpowering blends. It is often under-utilized in subtle applications where its complexity can enhance overall product depth.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on ginger root absolute is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and typical applications. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data may be less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and guidelines.
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 2026-09-14 18:02:42 GMT (p2)