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Levulinic Acid

Low concern

Levulinic acid is FEMA GRAS as a synthetic flavoring substance and is a JECFA-evaluated flavoring agent. Used at low levels in food with no significant safety concerns at typical exposure.

Found in

6 products

What it is

A short-chain keto acid (4-oxopentanoic acid) produced from the acid hydrolysis of carbohydrates such as cellulose.

Flavoring substance and pH adjuster; precursor to sodium levulinate used as antimicrobial.

Why it's flagged

mild skin/eye irritant at high concentrations

What regulators actually say

"Levulinic acid is listed among synthetic flavoring substances and adjuvants permitted for use in food."

21 CFR 172.515 — ecfr.gov

Regulatory status

United States — FDA

GRAS for use as a synthetic flavoring substance (21 CFR 172.515).

European Union — EFSA

Evaluated as flavoring substance FL-no 08.082; no safety concern at use levels.

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