Essential Oil
Essential oil is a generic umbrella term covering hundreds of plant extracts with widely varying compositions and safety profiles. FDA-listed essential oils are GRAS at flavoring levels.
What it is
A concentrated hydrophobic liquid extracted from plants by steam distillation, cold pressing, or solvent extraction; contains volatile aromatic compounds.
Used in tiny quantities as flavoring or aromatic ingredient in foods, beverages, confections; also used heavily in cosmetics and aromatherapy.
Why it's flagged
- Concentrated essential oils can be toxic at significantly higher than flavoring doses; safety profile varies by source
What regulators actually say
"Essential oils, oleoresins (solvent-free), and natural extractives... are generally recognized as safe for their intended use."
"Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 establishes harmonised rules for flavourings and certain food ingredients with flavouring properties."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS for use as flavors at limited levels under 21 CFR 182.20.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as flavorings under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
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