FlavScents AInsights Entry: Mushroom Oil (CAS: 68917-13-5)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Mushroom Oil
- CAS Number: 68917-13-5
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Material Type: Natural complex material derived from mushrooms
- Source: Typically extracted from various species of mushrooms through steam distillation or solvent extraction
- Key Constituents: The composition of mushroom oil can vary significantly depending on the species of mushroom, geographical origin, and extraction method. Common constituents may include alcohols, aldehydes, and ketones, which contribute to its characteristic aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Mushroom oil is characterized by its earthy, umami-rich aroma, often described as woody, musty, and slightly sweet. The intensity of the odor can vary, but it is generally considered moderate to strong, with a notable diffusion that can enhance the depth of flavor profiles in culinary applications. The oil is primarily used as a background realism note in flavor formulations, providing a savory base that complements other ingredients.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Mushroom oil is naturally sourced from various species of mushrooms, which are fungi that grow in diverse environments worldwide. The oil is typically formed through the extraction of volatile compounds present in the mushrooms. These compounds can be produced through enzymatic degradation of proteins and carbohydrates within the mushroom, contributing to the complex aroma profile. Mushroom oil is often used in products labeled as "natural flavor" due to its derivation from natural sources.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Mushroom oil is widely used in savory flavor applications, including soups, sauces, and meat analogs. It serves as a functional flavor enhancer, providing umami and depth to flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. The oil is relatively stable under heat and neutral pH conditions but may oxidize over time, affecting its sensory properties.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, mushroom oil is utilized for its earthy and grounding qualities. It is often incorporated into woody and chypre fragrance families, adding a natural, forest-like depth. The oil acts as a base note, providing longevity and richness to the fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from trace amounts up to 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
- Alcohols: Contribute to the earthy and woody notes
- Aldehydes: Provide a sweet, musty aroma
- Ketones: Enhance the umami and savory characteristics
Composition varies by origin, harvest, and processing method.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Mushroom oil is not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA but may be used under general flavoring guidelines.
- European Union: Regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; specific FL number status not available.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with potential for future divergence.
- Asia: Limited specific regulations; generally follows international guidelines.
- Latin America: Regulatory status varies; Brazil and MERCOSUR countries may have specific requirements.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Generally considered safe at typical flavor use levels; no specific ADI or MSDI established.
- Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance use.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility is moderate; occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.
Risk profiles may differ slightly between food and fragrance applications due to differing exposure routes and concentrations.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Mushroom oil is valued for its ability to impart a rich, umami character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other savory notes and can enhance the authenticity of meat analogs. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to an overpowering mustiness. It is often underutilized in fragrance applications, where it can add unique depth and complexity.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
Data on mushroom oil is well-established in terms of sensory characteristics and typical uses. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, leading to reliance on industry-typical practices and assumptions. Known data gaps include detailed compositional analysis and comprehensive safety evaluations.
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 2026-09-15 12:27:20 GMT (p2)