Citrus Paradisi Peel Extract
Grapefruit peel extract is a recognized natural flavoring but contains furanocoumarins (bergamottin, 6,7-dihydroxybergamottin, epoxybergamottin) that irreversibly inhibit intestinal CYP3A4, producing well-documented grapefruit-drug interactions. FDA explicitly warns consumers about grapefruit-drug interactions.
What it is
Extract from grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) peel containing furanocoumarins (bergamottin, 6,7-dihydroxybergamottin, epoxybergamottin), limonoids and flavonoids.
Flavoring and aroma ingredient; sometimes used in beverages and supplements.
Why it's flagged
- CYP3A4 inhibition causes grapefruit-drug interactions
- can raise blood levels of many medications to toxic ranges
- peel contains higher furanocoumarins than juice
What regulators actually say
"Identification of epoxybergamottin as a CYP3A4 inhibitor in grapefruit peel."
"Furanocoumarins are metabolized by CYP3A4 to reactive intermediates that bond covalently to the active site of the enzyme, causing irreversible inactivation."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Flavor permitted, but FDA has issued consumer warning on grapefruit-drug interactions
European Union — EFSA
Authorized natural flavor; drug interaction concern recognized in pharmacovigilance
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