FlavScents AInsights Entry: Black Currant Bud Absolute (CAS: 97676-19-2)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Black currant bud absolute is a natural complex material derived from the buds of the black currant plant (Ribes nigrum). It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for black currant bud absolute is 97676-19-2. This material does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature. Other identifiers include its use in fragrance and flavor applications, often referenced in industry-specific databases and regulatory documents.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Black currant bud absolute is renowned for its distinctive sensory profile, characterized by a rich, fruity, and green aroma with nuances of cat urine and a sulfurous undertone. It is often described as having a strong intensity and excellent diffusion, making it a potent impact note in formulations. The material is typically used to impart a natural, fresh, and slightly tart character to both flavors and fragrances. Specific odor and taste thresholds are not well-documented, but its potent nature suggests low threshold values.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Black currant bud absolute is naturally sourced from the buds of the black currant plant, Ribes nigrum, which is native to Europe and parts of Asia. The formation of its characteristic aroma compounds occurs through enzymatic processes within the plant, particularly during bud development. This material is often used in products labeled as "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its direct botanical origin.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, black currant bud absolute is used to enhance fruit flavors, particularly in berry and tropical profiles. It serves as an impact note, providing authenticity and depth to flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the complexity of the flavor matrix. It is stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Black currant bud absolute is utilized in various fragrance families, including fruity, green, and chypre compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.01% to 0.5%, depending on the formulation. Its volatility allows it to impart a fresh, green character that enhances the overall fragrance profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of black currant bud absolute include hexenol, hexenal, and various sulfur-containing compounds such as dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl sulfoxide. These components contribute to its characteristic aroma and flavor profile. The composition of the absolute can vary significantly based on the geographical origin, harvest time, and extraction method used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, black currant bud absolute is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use under FEMA guidelines. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, with specific FL number status. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, and in Latin America, such as Brazil and MERCOSUR, the regulatory status may vary, and formulators should consult local regulations for specific guidance.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, black currant bud absolute is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, but IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be in place during handling. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Black currant bud absolute is valued for its ability to impart a natural, fresh character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fruity and green notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering sulfurous note. It is frequently under-used in formulations seeking a subtle, natural enhancement.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on black currant bud absolute is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and typical use levels. However, industry practices often rely on undocumented synergies and formulation strategies. Regulatory ambiguities exist in certain regions, necessitating careful review of local 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 2026-01-21 11:39:40 GMT (p2)
