FlavScents AInsights Entry: Cola Acuminata Schott et Endl. Seed Extract (CAS: 68916-19-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Kola Nut Extract
• CAS Number: 68916-19-8
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: Not applicable
• Material Type: Natural complex material derived from the seeds of the Cola acuminata tree.
• Source: The extract is obtained from the seeds of the Cola acuminata tree, native to West Africa. It is a complex mixture of various compounds, primarily caffeine, theobromine, and tannins.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Cola acuminata seed extract is known for its distinctive bitter and astringent taste, often described as earthy with nutty undertones. The extract has a moderate intensity and is primarily used as a flavor enhancer in beverages, particularly in cola-type drinks. It contributes a characteristic bitterness and complexity to flavor profiles, acting as both an impact note and a background modifier.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Cola acuminata is naturally found in the tropical rainforests of West Africa. The seeds are harvested and processed to extract the flavor compounds. The primary constituents, caffeine and theobromine, are naturally occurring alkaloids that contribute to the extract's stimulant properties. The extract qualifies for "natural flavor" designation due to its direct derivation from plant material.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Cola acuminata seed extract is predominantly used in the beverage industry, particularly in cola-flavored drinks. It serves as a flavor enhancer and provides a characteristic bitterness and complexity. Typical use levels in beverages range from 50 to 200 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product formulation. The extract is stable under typical beverage processing conditions, including pasteurization and carbonation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, cola acuminata seed extract is used to impart a unique, earthy note to certain fragrance compositions. It is typically used in trace amounts to add depth and complexity, often in gourmand or exotic fragrance families. The extract contributes primarily to the base notes due to its relatively low volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

• Caffeine: A major stimulant alkaloid contributing to the bitter taste.
• Theobromine: Another alkaloid with a milder stimulant effect.
• Tannins: Contribute to the astringency and complexity of the flavor profile.

Composition may vary based on the origin, harvest time, and processing methods.

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

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and beverages.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for use as a flavoring substance.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific regulations varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with specific use levels regulated.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: The extract is considered safe for consumption at typical use levels in beverages. Caffeine content should be monitored to avoid excessive intake.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe in fragrance applications, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization.
• Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk, but occupational exposure should be managed to avoid excessive caffeine intake.

Risk profiles are similar for both food and fragrance applications, with caffeine content being the primary consideration.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Cola acuminata seed extract is valued for its ability to impart a unique bitterness and complexity to flavor profiles. It synergizes well with other flavor compounds, particularly in cola-type beverages. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to excessive bitterness. It is often under-utilized in non-beverage applications, where its unique profile could add depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on cola acuminata seed extract is well-established, particularly regarding its use in beverages. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps include detailed compositional analysis across different sources and processing methods.

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 2026-01-28 08:46:30 GMT (p2)