FlavScents AInsights Entry: Liquidambar styraciflua Balsam Extract (CAS: 94891-28-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract, commonly known as American sweetgum balsam, is a natural complex material derived from the resin of the Liquidambar styraciflua tree. This extract is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for this material is 94891-28-8. It does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature. Other identifiers such as FL number or CoE number are not typically assigned to such complex materials. The composition of this extract can vary significantly depending on the geographical origin, harvest time, and processing methods used.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is characterized by its warm, sweet, and balsamic odor profile, often described as having a resinous and slightly spicy undertone. The intensity of its aroma can vary, but it generally serves as a background note that adds depth and warmth to fragrance compositions. The extract is not typically used for its taste, and specific taste thresholds are not well-documented. In perfumery, it is valued for its ability to enhance the richness and complexity of a scent, often acting as a modifier or a base note.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

The primary natural source of Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is the American sweetgum tree, native to the southeastern United States. The balsam is obtained by tapping the tree and collecting the resin, which is then processed to produce the extract. This material is considered a natural fragrance and flavor component, aligning with "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations due to its direct derivation from plant material without synthetic modification.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is used sparingly due to its potent aroma. It is typically incorporated into flavor systems to impart a warm, sweet, and resinous character, often in confectionery, baked goods, and beverages. The typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially overwhelming the flavor profile. The extract is relatively stable under typical food processing conditions, though it may be sensitive to prolonged exposure to high heat and oxidation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is utilized across various fragrance families, including oriental, woody, and amber compositions. It serves as a base note, providing a warm and balsamic foundation that enhances the longevity and depth of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and character. The extract's volatility is moderate, contributing to the middle to base notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

The key constituents of Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract include cinnamic acid, cinnamyl cinnamate, and styrene, among others. The exact composition can vary based on factors such as the tree's growing conditions and the extraction process. These constituents are responsible for the extract's characteristic balsamic and sweet aroma.

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

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors by FEMA. In the European Union, it is permitted under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, though specific FL numbers may not be assigned due to its complex nature. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom aligns with the EU post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, and in Latin America, such as Brazil and MERCOSUR, the extract is typically accepted in flavors and fragrances, though specific regulations may vary and should be verified with local authorities.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, the extract is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific restrictions. Inhalation exposure is not typically a concern at standard use levels, but occupational exposure should be managed to minimize risks. 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

Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is valued for its ability to impart warmth and depth to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other balsamic and spicy notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering aroma, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired warmth. Formulators should carefully balance its concentration to achieve the optimal sensory impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on Liquidambar styraciflua balsam extract is well-established in terms of 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 consult authoritative sources for guidance. Known data gaps include precise compositional analysis and regional regulatory nuances.

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 2026-02-27 04:09:47 GMT (p2)