FlavScents AInsights Entry for Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Oil (CAS: 223747-79-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Amaranthus caudatus seed oil
- CAS Number: 223747-79-3
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: Not applicable
- Material Type: Natural complex material (seed oil)
- Source: Derived from the seeds of Amaranthus caudatus, commonly known as love-lies-bleeding or tassel flower.
Amaranthus caudatus seed oil is a natural complex material, primarily composed of triglycerides. It is extracted from the seeds of the Amaranthus caudatus plant, which is known for its vibrant red flowers and historical significance as a food crop in South America. The oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, and contains minor components such as squalene and tocopherols, which contribute to its stability and potential health benefits.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem
2. Sensory Profile
Amaranthus caudatus seed oil is generally characterized by a mild, nutty aroma with subtle earthy undertones. Its flavor profile is similarly mild, making it suitable for use as a background note in flavor formulations. The oil's sensory attributes are not typically intense, allowing it to blend seamlessly with other ingredients without overpowering them.
The oil does not have a significant impact note but can enhance the overall mouthfeel and richness of a formulation. Specific odor and taste thresholds are not well-documented, but its mild nature suggests it is used more for its functional properties than its sensory impact.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Amaranthus caudatus is native to South America but is now cultivated worldwide, particularly in regions with warm climates. The seed oil is obtained through cold pressing or solvent extraction of the seeds. As a natural product, it qualifies for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction method and intended use.
The oil's composition can vary based on factors such as geographic origin, climate, and cultivation practices. This variability can influence the oil's sensory and functional properties, making it important for formulators to verify the specific characteristics of each batch.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Amaranthus caudatus seed oil is used in flavor formulations primarily for its functional properties rather than its flavor impact. It is commonly used in categories such as bakery, confectionery, and dairy products, where it can contribute to texture and mouthfeel.
Typical use levels in finished food products range from 100 to 500 ppm, depending on the application and desired effect. The oil is stable under typical processing conditions, including moderate heat and neutral pH, but care should be taken to avoid oxidation, which can affect its quality and shelf life.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, amaranthus caudatus seed oil is valued for its emollient properties and ability to act as a carrier oil. It is used in personal care products, such as lotions and creams, where it provides a smooth texture and enhances the skin feel.
The oil is typically used at low concentrations, often less than 1%, due to its mild scent and functional role as a base or carrier. It contributes to the base note of a fragrance, providing a subtle, earthy undertone that complements other more volatile components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
- Linoleic Acid: A major component, contributing to the oil's emollient properties.
- Squalene: Known for its moisturizing and antioxidant properties.
- Tocopherols: Natural antioxidants that enhance the oil's stability.
The composition of amaranthus caudatus seed oil can vary significantly based on factors such as origin and processing methods. Formulators should verify the specific profile of each batch to ensure consistency and quality.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not specifically listed as GRAS by FEMA, but generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
- European Union: Not explicitly listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; use should comply with general safety and labeling requirements.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Limited specific regulations; generally accepted in Japan and China under broader food safety standards.
- Latin America: No specific regulations identified; generally accepted under regional food safety frameworks.
Regulatory status may vary, and formulators should consult local regulations to ensure compliance.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Amaranthus caudatus seed oil is considered safe for use in food and cosmetic applications, with no significant toxicological concerns reported. Oral exposure through flavor use is generally low, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. The oil's components, such as linoleic acid, are common dietary fats with established safety profiles.
Dermal exposure in fragrance and cosmetic applications is also considered safe, with no reports of irritation or sensitization at typical use levels. The oil's mild nature and emollient properties make it suitable for sensitive skin formulations.
Inhalation exposure is minimal due to the oil's low volatility, reducing occupational safety concerns.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Amaranthus caudatus seed oil is valued for its functional properties, particularly its emollient and stabilizing effects. It is often used in combination with other oils and ingredients to enhance texture and stability in both food and cosmetic formulations.
Formulators should be aware of the oil's potential for oxidation and take steps to protect it from light and air. It is often under-utilized in formulations where its mild sensory profile can be an advantage, providing subtle enhancement without overpowering other components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on amaranthus caudatus seed oil is well-established in terms of its composition and functional properties. However, specific sensory and regulatory data may be limited, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and general safety guidelines.
Known data gaps include detailed sensory thresholds and specific regulatory approvals in certain regions. Formulators should verify the quality and consistency of each batch due to natural variability.
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 2026-09-09 21:07:17 GMT (p2)