AInsights Entry for Medicago Sativa Extract (CAS: 84082-36-0)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Medicago sativa extract, commonly known as alfalfa extract, is a natural complex material derived from the alfalfa plant. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for this extract is 84082-36-0. It does not have a specific FEMA number or IUPAC name due to its complex nature. The extract is often used in both flavor and fragrance applications due to its rich profile of bioactive compounds.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Medicago sativa extract is characterized by a mild, green, and slightly sweet odor, reminiscent of fresh-cut grass or hay. Its flavor profile is similarly mild, with subtle earthy and nutty notes. The extract is typically used as a background realism note in flavor formulations, providing a natural and fresh character. Specific odor and taste thresholds are not well-documented, but its impact is generally considered subtle and supportive rather than dominant.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Alfalfa, the source of Medicago sativa extract, is widely cultivated and naturally occurs in temperate regions. The extract is obtained through processes such as solvent extraction or steam distillation of the plant material. It is often used in products labeled as "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its plant origin. The composition of the extract can vary significantly depending on the geographical origin, harvest time, and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Medicago sativa extract is used in various flavor categories, including herbal, green, and vegetable flavors. It serves as a functional background note, enhancing the naturalness and complexity of flavor systems. Typical use levels in food and beverages range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application. The extract is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, Medicago sativa extract is used in green and herbal fragrance families. It acts as a modifier or trace realism note, contributing to the freshness and naturalness of the scent profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect. The extract 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 Medicago sativa extract include saponins, flavonoids, and coumarins. These compounds contribute to the extract's sensory and functional properties. The composition can vary widely based on factors such as plant variety, growing conditions, and extraction method.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, Medicago sativa extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and is permitted for use in food and fragrance applications. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom aligns with the EU post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, and in Latin America, such as Brazil, the extract is typically accepted for use, but specific regulations may vary, and formulators should verify compliance with local authorities.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, Medicago sativa extract is considered safe at typical use levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, but formulators should consider potential sensitization, especially in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to the extract's moderate volatility. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant safety concerns reported.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Medicago sativa extract is valued for its ability to impart a natural, fresh character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other green and herbal notes, enhancing the overall complexity and authenticity of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an undesirable grassy or hay-like note. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle, natural enhancement.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on Medicago sativa extract is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical applications. However, specific quantitative data on thresholds and regulatory nuances in certain regions may be limited. Industry practices often rely on qualitative assessments and historical usage patterns.
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 2026-09-21 15:19:29 GMT (p2)
