FlavScents AInsights Entry: Mace Oil CO2 Extract (CAS: 84082-68-8)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Mace Oil CO2 Extract
- CAS Number: 84082-68-8
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Material Type: Natural complex material derived from the aril of nutmeg seeds (Myristica fragrans)
- Description: Mace oil CO2 extract is a complex mixture obtained through supercritical CO2 extraction of mace, the aril surrounding the nutmeg seed. This method preserves the volatile and non-volatile components, offering a more complete profile compared to steam distillation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Mace oil CO2 extract is characterized by its warm, spicy, and slightly sweet aroma, reminiscent of nutmeg but with a more delicate and refined profile. It exhibits a complex bouquet with notes of pepper, citrus, and a hint of floral undertones. The intensity is moderate to strong, with a good diffusion that makes it suitable for both flavor and fragrance applications. The extract is often used as an impact note or a background modifier to enhance the overall sensory experience.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Mace oil is naturally sourced from the aril of the nutmeg seed, primarily grown in regions such as Indonesia, Grenada, and India. The CO2 extraction process involves using supercritical carbon dioxide to extract the essential oils, preserving the delicate balance of volatile compounds. This method is favored for its ability to maintain the integrity of the natural aroma profile, qualifying it for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Mace oil CO2 extract is utilized in various flavor categories, including baked goods, beverages, and savory dishes. It serves as a functional component in flavor systems, providing warmth and complexity. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 5 to 50 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application. The extract is stable under moderate heat and neutral pH conditions but may degrade under prolonged exposure to high temperatures or acidic environments.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In perfumery, mace oil CO2 extract is valued for its versatility across fragrance families such as oriental, spicy, and gourmand. It acts as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges from 0.1% to 1% in the final product, depending on the desired olfactory impact. The extract's volatility allows it to blend well with other essential oils, enhancing the overall fragrance profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
- Sabinene
- Myristicin
- Elemicin
- Safrole
- Limonene
The composition of mace oil CO2 extract can vary significantly based on the origin, harvest time, and extraction process. These constituents are responsible for the characteristic aroma and flavor profile of the extract.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Mace oil CO2 extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use by FEMA. Specific regulatory approvals for fragrance use are not explicitly documented.
- European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for use in food flavorings. No specific FL number is assigned.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Limited specific data; generally aligns with international standards.
- Latin America: Regulatory status varies; Brazil and MERCOSUR countries typically follow international guidelines.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Mace oil CO2 extract is considered safe for consumption at typical flavor use levels. No specific ADI or MSDI is established, but it is used within industry-typical ranges.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally regarded as safe in fragrance applications, though potential for sensitization exists. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific use limits.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility may pose inhalation risks in occupational settings; appropriate ventilation and safety measures are recommended.
Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications due to varying exposure routes and concentrations.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Mace oil CO2 extract is prized for its ability to impart warmth and complexity to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other spices and citrus notes, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to overpowering or unbalanced compositions. It is often underutilized in savory applications, where it can add depth and richness.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on mace oil CO2 extract is well-established, with consistent findings across sensory and regulatory literature. However, industry practices often rely on undocumented experiential knowledge, particularly regarding optimal use levels and synergies. Some regulatory ambiguities exist, particularly in non-Western markets.
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 2026-08-25 18:23:54 GMT (p2)