FlavScents AInsights Entry for Ficus Carica Bud Extract (CAS: 90028-74-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Ficus carica bud extract, derived from the buds of the common fig tree, is a natural complex material. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for this extract is 90028-74-3. This extract does not have a specific FEMA number or other identifiers like FL or CoE numbers due to its complex nature. As a natural extract, it is characterized by a variety of functional groups that contribute to its sensory properties, but specific molecular formulas or weights are not applicable.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Ficus carica bud extract is known for its green, fresh, and slightly sweet aroma, reminiscent of the fig fruit itself. It has a moderate intensity and is often used to impart a natural, green note in both flavors and fragrances. The extract can serve as an impact note or a background modifier, enhancing the overall realism of a formulation. Specific taste or odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its sensory role is typically as a subtle enhancer rather than a dominant note.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
The extract is naturally sourced from the buds of the Ficus carica tree, commonly known as the fig tree. This tree is native to the Middle East and Western Asia but is now widely cultivated in temperate regions around the world. The formation of the extract involves harvesting the buds and processing them through methods such as solvent extraction or steam distillation. Its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" is supported by its direct derivation from plant material without synthetic alteration.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, ficus carica bud extract is used to impart a fresh, green note that complements fruit and herbal profiles. It is commonly found in flavor categories such as fruit blends, herbal teas, and confectionery. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. The extract is generally stable under typical food processing conditions, though it may be sensitive to prolonged heat exposure.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Ficus carica bud extract is utilized in fragrance formulations to provide a green, fresh note that enhances the naturalness of the scent profile. It is often included in fragrance families such as green, fruity, and chypre. The extract can function as a trace realism enhancer or a subtle modifier. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect. It contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of ficus carica bud extract can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and extraction method. Typical constituents include various terpenes, aldehydes, and alcohols, which collectively contribute to its characteristic aroma. Notable components may include linalool, geraniol, and hexanal, though specific concentrations are not fixed and should be verified with supplier documentation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, ficus carica bud extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use, though specific regulatory approvals may vary. In the European Union, it falls under the general provisions of Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavorings. Post-Brexit, the United Kingdom aligns closely with EU regulations but may have specific nuances. In Asia, regulatory acceptance varies, with Japan and China having specific guidelines for natural extracts. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and MERCOSUR members may have their own regulatory frameworks, often harmonized with international standards.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, ficus carica bud extract is considered safe within typical flavor use levels, though specific ADI or MSDI values are not well-documented. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling. 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
Ficus carica bud extract is valued for its ability to impart a natural, green freshness to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other green and fruity notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overly green or herbal profile, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired freshness. Formulators should balance its use carefully to achieve the intended sensory impact.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on ficus carica bud extract is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical applications. However, specific quantitative data on its constituents and regulatory approvals may vary, requiring verification with suppliers and regulatory bodies. Industry practices are generally consistent, though some undocumented variations may exist.
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 2026-03-03 12:41:55 GMT (p2)
