FlavScents AInsights Entry: Beeswax Absolute (CAS: 8012-89-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Beeswax absolute is a complex natural material derived from the honeycomb of the honeybee, Apis mellifera. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for beeswax absolute is 8012-89-3. It does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature. Other identifiers include its use in perfumery and flavoring, often referenced in industry-specific databases and regulatory documents.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Beeswax absolute is characterized by its warm, honey-like aroma with subtle floral and sweet undertones. It is often described as having a rich, balsamic scent with a hint of tobacco and hay. The intensity is moderate, providing a comforting and enveloping olfactory experience. In flavor applications, it imparts a sweet, waxy note that can enhance the overall profile of a product. Its sensory role is typically as a background realism enhancer or a modifier in both fragrance and flavor formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Beeswax is naturally produced by honeybees as they build their honeycombs. The absolute is obtained through solvent extraction of the wax, which is a byproduct of honey production. This material is considered a natural fragrance and flavor ingredient, aligning with consumer preferences for natural products. Its formation does not involve synthetic processes, making it suitable for natural labeling in various applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, beeswax absolute is used to impart a natural, honey-like sweetness and waxy texture. It is commonly used in confectionery, bakery products, and beverages. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is generally stable under typical food processing conditions, although it may degrade at very high temperatures or extreme pH levels.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Beeswax absolute is a valued ingredient in perfumery, particularly in creating natural and warm fragrance profiles. It is used in various fragrance families, including oriental and gourmand. Its role is often as a base note, providing depth and longevity to the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 2%, depending on the desired effect. Its low volatility makes it an excellent fixative, enhancing the longevity of more volatile top notes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
Beeswax absolute contains a variety of constituents, including hydrocarbons, esters, and fatty acids. Major components often include palmitate, oleate, and linoleate esters, which contribute to its characteristic aroma. The composition can vary significantly based on the geographic origin, season, and processing methods used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, beeswax absolute is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and cosmetics. The European Union permits its use under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, and it is listed with an FL number. In the UK, post-Brexit regulations align closely with EU standards. In Asia, including Japan and China, it is accepted for use in flavors and fragrances, although specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil recognize its use in both food and cosmetic applications.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Beeswax absolute is considered safe for use in food and cosmetic products. Oral exposure through flavor use is minimal, with no specific ADI or MSDI established, but it is generally regarded as safe at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrances is also considered safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Beeswax absolute is valued for its ability to impart natural warmth and depth to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other natural ingredients, enhancing their richness and complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to overpower delicate notes if used excessively. It is often underutilized in modern formulations, where its natural profile can add significant value.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on beeswax absolute is well-established, with consistent findings across various studies and industry reports. While specific numeric values for some parameters are not always available, industry practices provide reliable guidance. Known data gaps include detailed compositional analysis, which can vary widely.
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 2026-01-27 19:10:45 GMT (p2)