FlavScents AInsights Entry for Fenugreek Absolute (CAS: 68990-15-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Fenugreek absolute is a natural complex material derived from the seeds of the Trigonella foenum-graecum plant. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for fenugreek absolute is 68990-15-8. It does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature. Other identifiers include its use in flavor and fragrance applications, but specific FL or CoE numbers are not typically assigned to such complex materials. The composition of fenugreek absolute can vary significantly depending on the origin, harvest, and processing methods used.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Fenugreek absolute is characterized by its rich, sweet, and nutty aroma with a hint of maple syrup and a slightly bitter undertone. The intensity of its odor is moderate to strong, making it a prominent impact note in formulations. It is often used to impart a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor profile. The taste threshold for fenugreek absolute is not clearly reported, but it is known for its ability to enhance the overall sensory experience in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Fenugreek absolute is naturally sourced from the seeds of the Trigonella foenum-graecum plant, commonly known as fenugreek. The seeds undergo a process of solvent extraction to produce the absolute. Fenugreek is widely cultivated in regions such as India, North Africa, and the Mediterranean. The absolute is considered a natural flavor and fragrance material due to its derivation from plant sources. Its formation does not involve synthetic pathways but relies on traditional extraction methods.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Fenugreek absolute is used in a variety of flavor categories, including bakery, confectionery, and spice blends. It serves as a functional flavoring agent, providing a sweet, nutty, and slightly spicy note. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with lower concentrations used for subtle background notes and higher concentrations for more pronounced flavor impact. Fenugreek absolute is relatively stable under heat but may be sensitive to oxidation, requiring careful formulation to maintain its sensory qualities.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, fenugreek absolute is utilized in oriental and gourmand fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing warmth and sweetness to the overall scent profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and role within the fragrance. Fenugreek absolute is considered a middle note due to its moderate volatility and ability to blend well with other fragrance components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

Fenugreek absolute contains several key constituents, including sotolone, which is responsible for its characteristic maple-like aroma. Other significant components include various lactones, pyrazines, and saponins. The composition of fenugreek absolute can vary based on factors such as geographic origin and extraction method, making it essential for formulators to verify the specific profile of the material they are using.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, fenugreek absolute is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, although specific FL numbers may not be assigned to complex materials like absolutes. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, and in Latin America, such as Brazil and MERCOSUR, fenugreek absolute is typically accepted for use in flavors and fragrances, but specific regulatory details may vary, necessitating consultation with local authorities.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, fenugreek absolute is considered safe within the typical use levels in food, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications may pose a risk of irritation or sensitization, particularly in sensitive individuals, and should be used in accordance with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is generally low risk due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are generally similar, with the primary concern being dermal sensitization.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Fenugreek absolute is valued for its unique sweet and nutty aroma, making it a versatile ingredient in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with vanilla, caramel, and spice notes, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering maple-like aroma, and oxidation, which can degrade its quality. Formulators should consider its variability in composition and ensure compatibility with other ingredients.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on fenugreek absolute is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical applications. However, industry practices regarding its use levels and regulatory status may not always be fully documented, requiring formulators to rely on informed estimates and best practices. Known data gaps include specific toxicological thresholds and regional regulatory nuances.

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 2026-09-02 19:45:07 GMT (p2)