Citrus Oil
Citrus oils are widely used flavorings considered safe at typical food levels, and the major component d-limonene is GRAS. Some citrus oils contain furanocoumarins (notably bergamot and grapefruit) that can interact with medications, and topical use of expressed citrus oils may cause photosensitivity.
What it is
A generic term for essential oils cold-pressed or distilled from citrus fruit peels (orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit, etc.), composed largely of d-limonene.
Natural flavoring; aromatic/citrus character.
Why it's flagged
- Possible drug interactions (grapefruit/bergamot furanocoumarins, variant-specific)
- Photosensitivity from topical use of expressed oils
- Allergic contact dermatitis
What regulators actually say
"Essential oils, oleoresins (solvent-free), and natural extractives (including distillates) of orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit, and tangerine are GRAS for use in food."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as natural flavoring substances - 21 CFR 182.20
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as natural flavoring under Regulation (EC) 1334/2008
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