Isoeugenol
Isoeugenol is a known skin sensitizer and is one of the 26 fragrance allergens that must be labelled on cosmetics in the EU. NTP found 'clear evidence' of carcinogenic activity in male mice (liver/thymus tumors) at high oral doses, but FDA and JECFA continue to permit it as a flavoring at use levels with established ADI.
What it is
Phenylpropene isomer of eugenol; component of clove, ylang-ylang, and nutmeg oils.
Flavoring substance; fragrance ingredient (spicy/clove notes).
Why it's flagged
- EU cosmetic allergen (declarable)
- skin sensitizer
- NTP rodent carcinogenicity at high doses
What regulators actually say
"Under the conditions of these 2-year gavage studies, there was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity of isoeugenol in male B6C3F1 mice based on increased incidences of hepatocellular adenoma and carcinoma."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted synthetic flavoring (21 CFR 172.515) at minimum quantity required
European Union — EFSA
Authorised flavouring; restricted in cosmetics with mandatory labelling (EU 1223/2009 Annex III)
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