FlavScents AInsights Entry: Mineral Oil (CAS: 8012-95-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Mineral oil, also known as liquid paraffin, is a colorless and odorless oil derived from refining crude oil. It is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, primarily alkanes, and cycloalkanes. The CAS number for mineral oil is 8012-95-1. It does not have a specific IUPAC name due to its complex nature. Mineral oil is not typically associated with a FEMA number or other flavor-specific identifiers like FL or CoE numbers. Its molecular formula is not fixed, as it is a mixture rather than a single compound, and its molecular weight can vary significantly depending on the specific composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Mineral oil is generally considered odorless and tasteless, which makes it suitable for use in applications where the presence of a scent or flavor is undesirable. Its primary sensory role is as a neutral carrier or diluent in both flavor and fragrance formulations. Due to its lack of sensory impact, it does not have specific odor or taste thresholds.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Mineral oil is not naturally occurring in the sense of being found in plants or animals. It is a byproduct of the distillation of petroleum to produce gasoline and other petroleum-based products. As such, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks, which typically require a biological origin.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, mineral oil is used primarily as a carrier or solvent for flavor compounds. It is valued for its inertness and stability, which do not interfere with the flavor profile of the finished product. Typical use levels in food and beverages are not well-documented in terms of ppm, as its role is more functional than flavor-contributing. However, it is generally used at low levels to ensure it does not affect the sensory characteristics of the product. Stability considerations include excellent resistance to oxidation and thermal degradation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Mineral oil is used in fragrances as a diluent or carrier oil. It is compatible with a wide range of fragrance compounds and is often used in products where a non-reactive base is required. Its volatility is low, contributing to its role as a base note in fragrance compositions. Typical concentration ranges are qualitative, as it serves more as a medium than an active fragrance component.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, mineral oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for specific uses, including as a food additive. In the European Union, it is regulated under various directives concerning food safety and cosmetics. Post-Brexit, the UK has maintained similar regulatory standards. In Asia, regulations can vary, with Japan and China having specific guidelines for its use in food and cosmetics. In Latin America, countries like Brazil follow international standards for its use in consumer products.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Mineral oil is considered safe for oral exposure at low levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by various health authorities. Dermal exposure is generally safe, with low irritation and sensitization potential, making it suitable for use in cosmetics and personal care products. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be monitored to prevent respiratory issues. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, given its inert nature.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Mineral oil is valued for its stability and inertness, making it an excellent carrier for both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with a wide range of compounds, providing a neutral base that does not alter the intended sensory profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to undesirable textural or sensory effects in the final product. It is often under-used in applications where a stable, non-reactive carrier is needed.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on mineral oil is well-established, particularly regarding its safety and regulatory status. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific use levels in flavor applications are less frequently reported. Known data gaps include detailed sensory thresholds, which are not typically relevant due to its inert nature.

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 (not applicable, explained)
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable)

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 2026-05-30 08:53:58 GMT (p2)