AInsights Entry for Caramelized Onion Oleoresin (CAS: 130007-42-0)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Caramelized onion oleoresin is a natural complex material derived from onions (Allium cepa) through a process of caramelization followed by solvent extraction. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents that contribute to its characteristic flavor and aroma. The CAS number for caramelized onion oleoresin is 130007-42-0. It does not have a specific FEMA number or IUPAC name due to its complex nature. The oleoresin is typically used in both flavor and fragrance applications to impart a rich, savory onion note.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Caramelized onion oleoresin is characterized by its rich, sweet, and savory aroma reminiscent of cooked onions. The flavor profile includes notes of sweetness, umami, and a slight pungency, which are typical of caramelized onions. The intensity of the aroma is moderate to strong, and it is often used as an impact note in flavor formulations to provide depth and authenticity. The oleoresin is valued for its ability to enhance the savory character of food products, contributing to a sense of cooked onion realism.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Caramelized onion oleoresin is derived from onions, which are widely cultivated and used globally. The formation of the oleoresin involves the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that gives browned foods their distinctive flavor. This reaction is responsible for the caramelized flavor profile. The oleoresin is considered a natural flavoring agent, aligning with the "natural flavor" designation due to its derivation from a natural source and traditional processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Caramelized onion oleoresin is extensively used in savory flavor applications, including soups, sauces, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. It serves as a flavor enhancer, providing depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. The oleoresin is stable under typical cooking conditions, although it may degrade at very high temperatures or in highly acidic environments.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, caramelized onion oleoresin is used to impart a savory, gourmand note, often in niche or specialty products. It can be found in fragrance families that emphasize culinary or savory themes. The oleoresin acts as a modifier, adding complexity and realism to fragrance compositions. Typical concentration ranges are qualitative, as the oleoresin is used sparingly to avoid overpowering other fragrance notes. It contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of caramelized onion oleoresin include sulfur-containing compounds, such as thiosulfinates and disulfides, which contribute to its characteristic aroma. Other components may include various aldehydes and ketones formed during the caramelization process. The composition of the oleoresin can vary significantly based on the onion variety, growing conditions, and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, caramelized onion oleoresin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food flavoring applications. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, and its use is permitted as a natural flavoring substance. 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 oleoresin is typically accepted for use in food products, although specific regulations may vary.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Caramelized onion oleoresin is considered safe for use in food products at typical exposure levels. Oral exposure through food consumption is the primary route, with no specific ADI or MSDI established, but it is generally recognized as safe when used within industry-typical levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is unlikely to cause irritation or sensitization, although IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific use limits. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Caramelized onion oleoresin is valued for its ability to impart a rich, savory flavor that enhances the authenticity of culinary products. It synergizes well with other savory ingredients, such as garlic and herbs, to create complex flavor profiles. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as the oleoresin's strong aroma can dominate other flavors. It is often under-utilized in applications where a subtle savory note could enhance the overall product appeal.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on caramelized onion oleoresin is well-established, with consistent sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, although specific quantitative data on use levels and toxicology may be limited. Known data gaps include detailed compositional analysis and long-term safety studies, which are typical for complex natural materials.
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 2026-06-13 09:31:12 GMT (p2)