# Dandelion Root, Extract Solid (taraxacum Spp.)

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 977038-72-4
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Dandelion root extract solid is a concentrated flavoring agent derived from taraxacum species plants. It is used in the food industry to impart bitter and herbal notes to beverages, foods, and flavor formulations.

## 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 Dandelion Root, Extract Solid?

Dandelion root extract solid (CAS Number: 977038-72-4) is a concentrated flavoring ingredient produced by extracting compounds from the roots of dandelion plants (taraxacum species). The extraction process removes water and volatile compounds, resulting in a solid or semi-solid product that contains the flavor-active components. Dandelion root has been traditionally used in herbal preparations and beverages for centuries, and its extract is now employed in modern food manufacturing as a flavoring agent.

## Common Uses

Dandelion root extract is primarily used as a flavoring agent in:

- Herbal and botanical beverages
- Coffee substitutes and coffee flavorings
- Bitter liqueurs and aperitifs
- Herbal tea blends and instant tea products
- Flavoring formulations for confectionery and baked goods
- Dietary supplement products
- Non-alcoholic flavored drinks

The extract provides characteristic bitter, slightly sweet, and earthy flavor notes that complement other herbal and roasted flavors. It is typically used in small quantities within multi-ingredient formulations.

## Safety Assessment

Dandelion root extract solid has not been formally evaluated or approved by the FDA under the Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) designation. However, the absence of an FDA GRAS determination does not automatically indicate safety concerns.

Relevant safety data points:

- **No adverse events reported**: The FDA has recorded zero adverse events associated with this ingredient
- **No recalls**: No food recalls have been linked to this extract
- **Traditional use history**: Dandelion root has been consumed in food and beverage applications for extended historical periods
- **Chemical composition**: Dandelion root contains inulin (a prebiotic fiber), taraxacin, and various phenolic compounds

When used as a minor flavoring ingredient at typical levels, dandelion root extract is generally considered acceptable in food applications. However, individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (including ragweed, chrysanthemums, and daisies) may experience cross-reactivity and should exercise caution.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, dandelion root extract can be used as a flavoring agent under 21 CFR Part 182, which covers substances that are generally recognized as safe for their intended use. While not specifically listed as GRAS, it falls within the category of natural flavoring substances derived from plant sources that have historical use in food.

International regulatory status varies:

- **European Union**: Listed as a natural flavoring substance permitted in food and beverages
- **Canada**: Permitted as a flavoring agent in food products
- **Australia**: Classified as a food ingredient permitted in specified product categories

Manufacturers using this ingredient should comply with labeling requirements and concentration limits specified in their respective jurisdictions.

## Key Studies

Scientific literature on dandelion root extract focuses primarily on its phytochemical composition and traditional uses rather than modern food safety studies:

- **Composition studies** have identified bioactive compounds including inulin, sesquiterpene lactones, and caffeic acid derivatives
- **In vitro and animal studies** suggest potential digestive and antioxidant properties, but these do not constitute food safety data
- **No human toxicity studies** have been published specifically evaluating safety at food flavoring concentrations
- **Allergenic potential research** indicates cross-reactivity risk for individuals with Asteraceae plant allergies

The limited modern scientific literature on this specific extract reflects its niche use in food flavoring applications. Safety assessments rely primarily on historical consumption patterns and traditional use rather than controlled clinical studies.

## 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. "Dandelion Root, Extract Solid (taraxacum Spp.) — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/dandelion-root-extract-solid-taraxacum-spp. Accessed 2026-05-16.