FlavScents AInsights Entry: Petitgrain Absolute Morocco (CAS: 8014-17-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Petitgrain absolute Morocco is a natural complex material derived from the leaves and green twigs of the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium). It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for petitgrain absolute is 8014-17-3. While it does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature, it is recognized in the fragrance and flavor industry for its unique profile. Other identifiers include its FL number and CoE number, which are used in regulatory contexts.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Petitgrain absolute Morocco is characterized by a fresh, floral, and slightly woody aroma with a hint of citrus. It is often described as having a green and herbaceous scent with a subtle bitter undertone. The intensity is moderate, making it suitable for both impact and background roles in formulations. The diffusion is relatively high, allowing it to impart a noticeable freshness in both flavors and fragrances. Specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its sensory role is typically as a modifier or enhancer, adding complexity and depth to compositions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Petitgrain absolute is naturally sourced from the bitter orange tree, specifically from the leaves and twigs. The formation of its aroma compounds involves enzymatic processes within the plant, which contribute to its characteristic scent profile. It is considered a natural fragrance and flavor material, aligning with consumer preferences for natural products. The designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" is supported by its direct extraction from plant material without synthetic modification.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, petitgrain absolute Morocco is used in a variety of categories, including citrus, floral, and herbal profiles. It serves as a functional component that enhances the freshness and complexity of flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. Stability considerations include moderate resistance to heat and pH variations, although it may be prone to oxidation, necessitating careful formulation and storage.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Petitgrain absolute Morocco is utilized across several fragrance families, including citrus, floral, and chypre. It acts as a modifier and impact note, providing a fresh and green character to perfumes and personal care products. Typical concentration ranges in formulations vary, often between 0.1% to 2%, depending on the product type and desired effect. Its volatility places it primarily in the top to middle notes, contributing to the initial impression and the heart of the fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of petitgrain absolute Morocco include linalyl acetate, linalool, and geranyl acetate, among others. These compounds contribute to its characteristic aroma profile. The composition can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and extraction method, which should be considered during formulation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, petitgrain absolute is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, and in Latin America, such as Brazil and MERCOSUR, it is accepted for use, although specific regulations may vary. Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, but formulators should verify country-specific requirements.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, petitgrain absolute is considered safe within typical 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 provides guidelines to mitigate these risks. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed. 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
Petitgrain absolute Morocco is valued for its ability to impart freshness and complexity. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral notes, enhancing the overall profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or unbalanced scent. It is frequently under-used in formulations seeking a natural and sophisticated aroma. Formulators should consider its variability and potential for oxidation during product development.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on petitgrain absolute Morocco is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and regulatory status. Industry practices are documented, though some variability in composition and regulatory nuances exist. Known data gaps include specific odor thresholds and detailed toxicological profiles, which require further research.
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 2026-03-11 15:40:25 GMT (p2)
