FlavScents AInsights Entry for Atlas Cedarwood Oil (CAS: 8023-85-6)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Atlas cedarwood oil, also known as Cedrus atlantica oil, is a natural complex material derived from the wood of the Atlas cedar tree. It is classified under CAS number 8023-85-6. This essential oil does not have a single molecular structure due to its complex nature, but it is recognized by its distinct aromatic profile. The oil is often used in both flavor and fragrance industries, and its composition can vary significantly depending on the source and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Atlas cedarwood oil is characterized by its warm, woody, and balsamic aroma with a hint of sweetness. It is often described as having a rich, earthy scent that can add depth and complexity to fragrance compositions. The oil's intensity is moderate, making it suitable as a background note or a modifier in both perfumes and flavorings. While specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, its sensory impact is notable for its ability to blend well with other woody and spicy notes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Atlas cedarwood oil is naturally sourced from the wood of the Cedrus atlantica tree, predominantly found in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. The oil is extracted through steam distillation, a process that captures its aromatic compounds. As a natural product, it qualifies for "natural fragrance" designation, which is significant for clean-label formulations in both the flavor and fragrance industries.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In the flavor industry, Atlas cedarwood oil is used to impart a woody, balsamic note to various products, including beverages, confectionery, and savory items. Its functional role is often as a background note that enhances the overall complexity of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. The oil is relatively stable under typical processing conditions, though it may be susceptible to oxidation over time.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Atlas cedarwood oil is a staple in the fragrance industry, commonly used in woody, oriental, and chypre fragrance families. It serves as a base note, providing longevity and depth to the fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.5% to 5%, depending on the desired intensity and the fragrance type. The oil's volatility is low, contributing to its role as a base note that anchors the fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The primary constituents of Atlas cedarwood oil include α-cedrene, β-cedrene, cedrol, and thujopsene. These compounds contribute to the oil's characteristic woody and balsamic aroma. The composition of the oil can vary based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and distillation process.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, Atlas cedarwood oil 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 and has an assigned FL number. Post-Brexit, the UK aligns closely with EU regulations. In Asia, regulatory frameworks vary, with Japan and China having specific guidelines for natural flavorings. In Latin America, countries like Brazil follow MERCOSUR regulations, which are generally harmonized with international standards.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, Atlas cedarwood oil is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, though IFRA provides guidelines to prevent sensitization and irritation. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low 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
Atlas cedarwood oil is valued for its ability to impart a warm, woody character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other woody, spicy, and citrus notes. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to overpower delicate compositions if used excessively. It is often underutilized in modern formulations, where its traditional appeal can add a unique dimension.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on Atlas cedarwood oil is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. However, industry practices regarding its use levels and sensory roles are often based on traditional knowledge rather than documented studies. Some variability in composition due to natural factors remains a known data gap.
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 2026-04-02 11:37:59 GMT (p2)