FlavScents AInsights Entry: Lime Oil Distilled Terpeneless (CAS: 68916-84-7)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Lime oil distilled terpeneless is a natural complex material derived from the distillation of lime oil, with the terpenes removed to enhance stability and concentrate the characteristic lime aroma. It is commonly referred to as "terpeneless lime oil." The CAS number for this material is 68916-84-7. It does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature. This material is often used in both flavor and fragrance applications due to its concentrated lime aroma, which is less prone to oxidation compared to regular lime oil.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Lime oil distilled terpeneless is characterized by its intense, fresh, and zesty lime aroma, with a slightly sweet and tangy undertone. The removal of terpenes results in a more stable and concentrated scent profile, making it a preferred choice for applications requiring a robust lime note. It serves as an impact note in both flavor and fragrance formulations, providing a bright and refreshing character. The odor threshold is not clearly reported, but it is known for its high diffusion and persistence.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Lime oil distilled terpeneless is derived from the fruit of the Citrus aurantiifolia plant. The oil is obtained through steam distillation of the lime peels, followed by a process to remove terpenes, which enhances the oil's stability and aroma concentration. This material is considered a natural flavor and fragrance ingredient, aligning with "natural" designations in various regulatory frameworks.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, lime oil distilled terpeneless is used to impart a strong, authentic lime flavor to a variety of products, including beverages, confectionery, and baked goods. It functions as both an impact note and a background enhancer, providing a fresh citrus character. Typical use levels range from 5 to 50 ppm in finished products, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product matrix. The oil is stable under moderate heat and neutral pH conditions but should be protected from prolonged exposure to light and air to prevent degradation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, lime oil distilled terpeneless is valued for its vibrant and refreshing citrus note, commonly used in colognes, personal care products, and household cleaners. It acts as a top note, providing an immediate burst of freshness. Typical concentration ranges from 0.1% to 1% in fragrance formulations, depending on the product type and desired scent profile. Its volatility makes it ideal for creating bright, uplifting fragrance compositions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of lime oil distilled terpeneless include citral, limonene, and linalool, among others. The composition can vary based on the origin, harvest time, and processing methods. These constituents contribute to the oil's characteristic aroma and functional properties in formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, lime oil distilled terpeneless is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and is permitted for use in food and fragrance applications. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. 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 and those in MERCOSUR recognize it under harmonized standards for natural flavoring substances.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, lime oil distilled terpeneless is considered safe within the typical use levels in food products, with no specific ADI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, but it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, necessitating adherence to IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its use in low concentrations, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling to prevent respiratory irritation.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Lime oil distilled terpeneless is prized for its concentrated lime aroma, offering formulators a stable and potent citrus note. It synergizes well with other citrus and tropical flavors, enhancing overall freshness. Common pitfalls include overuse, leading to overpowering citrus notes, and underuse, resulting in a lack of impact. Proper storage and handling are crucial to maintain its quality and efficacy.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on lime oil distilled terpeneless is well-established, with consistent sensory and regulatory information available. However, industry practices may vary, and some undocumented uses exist. Known data gaps include specific odor thresholds and detailed toxicological profiles, which require further research.
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
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a
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 2026-04-06 11:34:42 GMT (p2)