Sage Oil
Sage oil contains thujone, a neuroactive compound regulated for maximum allowable levels in EU food and beverages. EFSA's FEEDAP assessment of sage oil identified safe concentrations only at low levels in animal feed, and EU Regulation (EC) 1334/2008 sets maximum thujone limits in foods (0.5-35 mg/kg depending on product).
What it is
Essential oil distilled from leaves of Salvia officinalis, containing thujone, camphor, 1,8-cineole, and other terpenes.
Flavoring agent in savory foods, herbal liqueurs, teas.
Why it's flagged
- Thujone neurotoxicity at high doses
- Avoid in pregnancy and epilepsy
What regulators actually say
"The FEEDAP Panel concluded that sage oil from Salvia officinalis is safe at maximum proposed use levels of 20 mg/kg for ornamental fish, with calculated safe concentrations ranging from 2 mg/kg for cats to 12 mg/kg for dogs in animal feed."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Listed as essential oil flavoring under 21 CFR 182.20.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted flavoring with thujone limits per Reg. (EC) 1334/2008.
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