# Cascarilla Bark, Extract (croton Spp.)

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 977083-53-6
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Cascarilla bark extract is a natural flavoring agent derived from the bark of Croton species plants, primarily used to impart bitter and aromatic qualities to beverages and food products. It functions as a flavoring adjuvant in food manufacturing but has not been granted GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status by the FDA.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Cascarilla Bark, Extract?

Cascarilla bark extract is derived from the dried bark of plants in the Croton genus, particularly Croton eluteria and related species. Croton plants are tropical shrubs native to the Bahamas and the Caribbean region. The extract is obtained through processing the bark and is used primarily for its bitter, spicy, and warm aromatic properties. Historically, cascarilla bark has been utilized in traditional medicine and as a flavoring agent in liqueurs, bitters, and other beverages for centuries.

## Common Uses

Cascarilla bark extract is employed in the food and beverage industry as a flavoring agent, with particular prevalence in the production of alcoholic beverages including vermouth, liqueurs, and aromatic bitters. It is also used in non-alcoholic flavored products where its distinctive bitter and spicy profile is desired. The extract contributes complexity to flavor formulations and is valued for its traditional applications in botanical beverage recipes. Due to its concentrated nature as an extract, only small quantities are required to achieve the desired flavor impact.

## Safety Assessment

No adverse events related to cascarilla bark extract have been reported to the FDA, and there are no documented recalls involving this ingredient. The lack of reported adverse events indicates a historical safety profile consistent with its long-standing use in traditional food and beverage applications.

The botanical origin of cascarilla bark extract means it contains naturally occurring compounds, which is typical of many traditional flavoring agents. Like other plant-based flavorings, the chemical composition can vary depending on the plant source, growing conditions, harvest timing, and extraction methods. The extract contains constituents including volatile oils and other organic compounds that contribute to its sensory properties.

Standard safety considerations for botanical extracts include potential allergenicity, particularly for individuals with sensitivities to members of the Euphorbiaceae family (to which Croton belongs). As with any food additive, appropriate use levels and quality control measures in manufacturing are important for safe application.

## Regulatory Status

Cascarilla bark extract has not been granted GRAS status by the FDA, meaning it does not have explicit FDA authorization as a food additive presumed safe for its intended use. However, its absence from the GRAS list does not indicate it is unsafe; rather, it reflects that formal GRAS petitions or determinations have not been completed for this specific ingredient in the United States regulatory framework.

The ingredient appears in some food formulations, particularly in traditional or specialty beverage categories, suggesting its use may occur under specific regulatory pathways or as part of established botanical flavoring practices. Regulatory oversight varies by jurisdiction, and requirements differ between countries regarding botanical extracts and traditional flavorings.

## Key Studies

Limited peer-reviewed scientific literature specifically addresses the safety profile of cascarilla bark extract in food applications. Most available information derives from its traditional use history and botanical characterization studies. The chemical composition of Croton species has been documented in phytochemical literature, identifying constituents such as essential oils and other volatile compounds.

The absence of adverse event reports and recalls suggests that historical consumption at typical use levels has not generated documented safety concerns. However, the limited volume of modern safety and efficacy research specific to food applications means comprehensive toxicological data comparable to synthetic additives or other extensively studied botanical ingredients may not be available in contemporary scientific databases.

Researchers and manufacturers interested in expanded applications or regulatory approvals would benefit from conducting appropriate safety studies including composition analysis, toxicological assessment, and allergenicity evaluation to support formal regulatory submissions.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Cascarilla Bark, Extract (croton Spp.) — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/cascarilla-bark-extract-croton-spp. Accessed 2026-05-19.