# D-limonene

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/d-limonene
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/d-limonene.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 5989-27-5
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

D-limonene is a naturally occurring terpene compound found primarily in citrus fruit peels that serves as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages. It provides characteristic lemon and orange flavor notes and is also used in cleaning products and cosmetics due to its aromatic properties.

## Regulatory status

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

## Detailed analysis

## Regulatory Status

D-limonene does not currently hold FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status as a food additive, though it is permitted for use as a flavoring agent in food under FDA regulations (21 CFR 182.60). The compound is listed in the Code of Federal Regulations as a synthetic flavoring substance. In the European Union, D-limonene is permitted as a food flavoring and is listed in the Union List of authorized flavoring substances. The substance is also approved for use as a flavoring in other major markets including Canada and Australia. Its non-GRAS status does not indicate safety concerns but rather reflects the regulatory categorization pathway through which it is approved.

## Key Studies

Toxicological evaluations of D-limonene have been conducted by organizations including the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM). A 2-year chronic toxicity study in rats demonstrated no carcinogenic potential. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has reviewed available safety data on D-limonene and determined that it poses no safety concern at current levels of dietary exposure. Metabolism studies confirm that D-limonene is rapidly absorbed and metabolized, with no bioaccumulation in tissues. The LD50 (lethal dose for 50% of test population) in rats is approximately 4.6 g/kg body weight via oral administration, indicating low acute toxicity. Genotoxicity studies have shown negative results, and reproductive toxicity studies in animal models have not identified concerns. The concentration of D-limonene in food products is typically very low—often in the range of parts per million—which is substantially lower than concentrations used in toxicological research.

## 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. "D-limonene — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/d-limonene. Accessed 2026-05-12.