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Natural Basil Flavouring
Natural Basil Flavouring
Low concern
Basil and basil oil are GRAS as natural flavorings. Estragole (methyl chavicol), a constituent of some basil chemotypes, is a rodent carcinogen at high doses, leading EFSA to recommend reducing exposure.
Found in
82 products
What it is
Natural flavoring derived from basil (Ocimum basilicum) — essential oil or extract.
Flavoring agent.
Why it's flagged
- estragole content (potential genotoxic carcinogen at high doses)
What regulators actually say
"Essential oils, oleoresins, and natural extractives that are GRAS — Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)."
"Estragole has been demonstrated to be genotoxic and carcinogenic in rodents; intake should be reduced."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS natural flavoring (21 CFR 182.20)
European Union — EFSA
Permitted flavoring; estragole exposure under monitoring
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