FlavScents AInsights Entry for Petitgrain Combava Oil (CAS: 91771-50-5)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Petitgrain combava oil is a natural complex material derived from the leaves and twigs of the kaffir lime tree (Citrus hystrix). It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for petitgrain combava oil is 91771-50-5. This essential oil does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature. Other identifiers include its use in IFRA standards and potential listings in flavor and fragrance databases.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Petitgrain combava oil is characterized by its fresh, green, and citrusy aroma with a slightly woody undertone. It is often described as having a sharp, tangy scent reminiscent of lime and lemongrass, with moderate intensity and good diffusion. The oil serves as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a lively and refreshing top note. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, its sensory role is primarily as a modifier and enhancer in both flavors and fragrances.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Petitgrain combava oil is naturally sourced from the leaves and twigs of the kaffir lime tree, predominantly found in Southeast Asia. The oil is typically obtained through steam distillation. Its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" is supported by its direct extraction from plant material without synthetic alteration. The formation of its characteristic aroma compounds involves enzymatic processes within the plant tissues.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, petitgrain combava oil is used to impart a fresh, citrusy note to a variety of products, including beverages, confectionery, and savory dishes. It functions as a top note and modifier, enhancing the overall freshness and complexity of flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. The oil is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under prolonged heat exposure.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Petitgrain combava oil is utilized in a wide range of fragrance families, including citrus, fougère, and chypre. It serves as a top note, providing a fresh and invigorating opening to fragrance compositions. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the formulation and desired effect. The oil's volatility contributes to its role as a top note, with moderate longevity and diffusion.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
Major constituents of petitgrain combava oil include limonene, citronellal, and linalool, which contribute to its characteristic citrusy and fresh aroma. The composition of the oil can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and extraction method. It is important for formulators to verify the specific profile of the oil they are using to ensure consistency in product development.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, petitgrain combava oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors, although specific regulatory approvals may vary. In the European Union, it is subject to the regulations outlined in Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008, with its status as a natural flavoring substance. Post-Brexit, the United Kingdom aligns closely with EU regulations. In Asia, regulatory frameworks in countries like Japan and China may have specific requirements for natural flavorings. In Latin America, countries such as Brazil follow MERCOSUR guidelines, which may differ from other regions.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, petitgrain combava oil is considered safe within the typical use levels in food products, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications should consider potential irritation or sensitization, particularly in leave-on products. IFRA provides guidelines to mitigate these risks. Inhalation exposure is generally low risk due to the oil's volatility and typical use concentrations. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with primary concerns related to dermal exposure.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Petitgrain combava oil is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, citrusy character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and herbal notes, enhancing the overall brightness and complexity of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or harsh aroma. It is often underutilized in savory applications, where it can add a unique twist. Formulators should consider the oil's variability and verify its composition for consistent results.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on petitgrain combava oil is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and typical applications. However, industry practices often rely on undocumented experiential knowledge, especially concerning optimal use levels and synergies. Known data gaps include specific toxicological thresholds and comprehensive regulatory approvals in certain regions.
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 2026-09-22 10:37:47 GMT (p2)