Dipteryx Odorata Seed Extract
Tonka bean is banned as a food ingredient in the United States since 1954 because it contains coumarin, a hepatotoxin. EFSA has set a TDI for coumarin of 0.1 mg/kg bw/day, frequently exceeded by tonka-flavored products.
What it is
Extract of tonka bean (Dipteryx odorata), high in coumarin.
Flavoring (vanilla-like aroma); cosmetic fragrance ingredient.
Why it's flagged
- banned in food in the US (FDA)
- hepatotoxicity from coumarin
- EU TDI easily exceeded
What regulators actually say
"Tonka bean and tonka bean extracts (including coumarin obtained from tonka beans) are deemed to be a food additive... use of these substances in human food causes the food to be adulterated."
"The Panel established a TDI for coumarin of 0.1 mg/kg body weight per day."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Prohibited from use in human food: 21 CFR 189.130 (tonka bean and tonka extract).
European Union — EFSA
Coumarin TDI of 0.1 mg/kg bw/day; EU restricts coumarin levels in foodstuffs under Regulation 1334/2008.
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