What is Celery Seed, Extract Solid?
Celery seed extract solid (CAS Number: 977038-53-1) is a concentrated flavoring agent produced from the seeds of Apium graveolens L., commonly known as celery. The extraction process isolates flavor compounds from celery seeds into a solid form suitable for food manufacturing. This ingredient belongs to the broader category of natural flavoring substances derived from plant materials. The extract captures the characteristic aromatic and taste compounds present in celery seeds, including limonene, selinene, and various aldehydes that contribute to the distinctive celery flavor profile.
Common Uses
Celery seed extract solid functions primarily as a flavoring agent in the food industry. It is commonly incorporated into:
- Seasoning blends and spice mixtures
- Soups and soup bases
- Sauces and condiments
- Processed meat products
- Savory snacks and crackers
- Vegetable-based food products
- Dry seasoning packets
The solid form provides convenience for manufacturers compared to liquid extracts, offering easier handling, storage, and consistent dosing in formulations. Typical usage levels are relatively low, as the extract is concentrated and potent.
Safety Assessment
Celery seed extract solid has not been formally evaluated and designated as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, this designation is not equivalent to a safety concern. Many traditional food ingredients, including celery seeds themselves, have long histories of culinary use without formal GRAS status.
Celery seeds have been used in traditional food preparation and herbal applications for centuries across multiple cultures. The extract represents a concentrated form of compounds naturally present in celery seeds. According to FDA records, there are zero adverse events and zero recalls associated with this specific additive, suggesting a favorable safety profile in commercial use.
Celery is recognized as a major food allergen in many countries. Individuals with celery allergies should avoid products containing celery seed extract, as the extract may retain allergenic proteins. This consideration is important for labeling and consumer awareness rather than indicating toxicity of the substance itself.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated celery seed and related celery products. Celery seed as a traditional spice is generally recognized as safe when used at typical culinary levels.
Regulatory Status
In the United States, celery seed extract solid is not listed as a GRAS ingredient, meaning it does not have explicit FDA pre-market approval for safety. However, it may be used in foods under the FDA's permissive framework for traditional food ingredients and flavoring agents, provided it meets standards for food-grade quality and does not pose safety concerns.
The ingredient is listed in various food additive databases and is permitted in food manufacturing in multiple countries, including those with strict regulatory frameworks. Manufacturers using this ingredient should ensure proper documentation, quality control, and appropriate labeling, particularly regarding allergen declarations.
Key Studies
Limited published scientific literature focuses specifically on celery seed extract solid as a food additive. However, research on celery seeds and their chemical composition has been published:
- Studies on volatile compounds in celery seeds have identified their flavor components through gas chromatography analysis
- Phytochemical analyses document the presence of limonene and other terpenes in celery seeds
- Traditional use documentation supports the historical safety of celery seed in foods
- No toxicological studies have raised concerns about celery seed extracts at food use levels
The absence of adverse event reports and recalls in FDA databases over multiple years of commercial use suggests acceptable safety when used as intended in food applications.