FlavScents AInsights Entry: PEG-10 Olive Glycerides (CAS: 103819-46-1)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): PEG-10 Olive Glycerides
- IUPAC Name: Not applicable as it is a mixture
- CAS Number: 103819-46-1
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: Not applicable
- Molecular Formula and Molecular Weight: Not applicable as it is a mixture
- Discussion: PEG-10 Olive Glycerides are a mixture of polyethylene glycol (PEG) esters of olive oil fatty acids. This material is used primarily for its emollient and surfactant properties in various formulations. The presence of olive oil fatty acids contributes to its mildness and skin compatibility, making it a popular choice in personal care products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
PEG-10 Olive Glycerides are not typically used for their sensory properties in flavor or fragrance applications. They are primarily valued for their functional roles, such as emulsification and texture modification. As such, specific odor and flavor descriptors, as well as taste and odor thresholds, are not well-documented. In formulations, they may contribute to a subtle, background creaminess or richness due to the olive oil component, but this is not their primary function.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
PEG-10 Olive Glycerides do not occur naturally. They are synthesized through the esterification of olive oil fatty acids with polyethylene glycol. This process is a form of chemical modification that enhances the solubility and emulsifying properties of the olive oil components, making them suitable for use in a variety of formulations. The designation of "natural" in this context would depend on regulatory definitions and the source of the olive oil used in the synthesis.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
PEG-10 Olive Glycerides are not commonly used as flavoring agents. Instead, they serve as emulsifiers and stabilizers in flavor systems, helping to blend oil and water-based components. Typical use levels in food and beverage formulations are not well-documented, but they are generally used at low concentrations to achieve the desired emulsification without impacting flavor. Stability considerations include resistance to oxidation and hydrolysis, making them suitable for a range of pH levels and temperatures.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, PEG-10 Olive Glycerides are used as solubilizers and carriers rather than for their scent. They help to stabilize fragrance oils in aqueous systems and can enhance the distribution of fragrance on the skin. Typical concentration ranges are not specified, but they are used in small amounts to achieve the desired solubilization without altering the fragrance profile. Their contribution is primarily functional, aiding in the even distribution and longevity of the fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: PEG-10 Olive Glycerides are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in cosmetics and personal care products. Their use in food is less common and would require specific regulatory approval.
- European Union: Approved for use in cosmetics under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. Their use in food would be subject to specific regulations.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit, with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Regulations vary by country; generally approved for cosmetic use.
- Latin America: Similar to the US and EU, primarily approved for cosmetic applications.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Limited data available for oral exposure as they are not typically used in food. Safety assessments would focus on the individual components.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe for use in cosmetics, with low irritation and sensitization potential. IFRA standards would apply if used in fragrance formulations.
- Inhalation Exposure: Not typically a concern due to low volatility. Occupational exposure limits are not well-defined.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
PEG-10 Olive Glycerides are valued for their ability to improve the texture and stability of emulsions. They are often used in synergy with other emulsifiers to enhance product performance. Common pitfalls include using them at too high a concentration, which can lead to greasiness or instability. They are frequently under-utilized in formulations where mildness and skin compatibility are priorities.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
Data on PEG-10 Olive Glycerides is well-established in the context of cosmetic applications, with industry-typical practices documented. However, there are gaps in data regarding their use in food, and regulatory ambiguities may exist in certain regions.
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 (not applicable, noted)
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable)
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 2026-08-29 09:15:36 GMT (p2)