# Isoeugenol

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 97-54-1
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Isoeugenol is a naturally occurring aromatic compound derived from eugenol, used as a flavoring agent in food products. It imparts a spicy, clove-like taste and aroma, and is commonly found in beverages, baked goods, and confectionery items.

## Regulatory status

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

## Detailed analysis

## What is Isoeugenol?

Isoeugenol (CAS Number 97-54-1) is an organic compound belonging to the class of phenylpropanoids. It is the isomer of eugenol, sharing the same molecular formula (C10H10O2) but with a different structural arrangement. Isoeugenol occurs naturally in various essential oils, including clove oil, ylang-ylang oil, and nutmeg oil. The compound is colorless to pale yellow and has a characteristic spicy, warm, clove-like odor with subtle floral notes.

## Common Uses

Isoeugenol is primarily used in the food industry as a flavoring agent and flavoring adjuvant. It appears in a variety of food products including:

- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Baked goods and bread products
- Confectionery and candy
- Dairy products
- Processed meats and savory foods
- Condiments and sauces

The compound is valued for its ability to provide spice notes without the heat of actual peppers, making it useful in formulations where a subtle warming flavor is desired. It is often used in very small quantities, typically measured in parts per million (ppm).

## Safety Assessment

Isoeugenol has been studied for safety in food applications. According to FDA records, there have been zero adverse events reported and zero recalls associated with isoeugenol use in food products. The compound has been used in food flavoring for many decades without documented safety incidents in the United States.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also evaluated isoeugenol as part of the flavoring compounds review process. In animal studies, isoeugenol has demonstrated low toxicity when administered orally. The compound is metabolized relatively quickly in the body and does not bioaccumulate.

Some toxicological studies have examined potential sensitization or allergenic properties, particularly given that eugenol (a related compound) is known to cause contact sensitization in some individuals. However, isoeugenol at the concentrations used in food products is not considered a significant sensitization concern for the general population when consumed orally, though individuals with specific sensitivities should exercise caution.

## Regulatory Status

Isoeugenol does not have FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status in the United States. However, the absence of GRAS status does not indicate a safety concern; rather, it reflects regulatory classification decisions. The compound may be used in food products under FDA regulations governing flavoring substances, where permitted use levels are established based on safety data and historical use patterns.

In the European Union, isoeugenol is listed in the Community list of flavoring substances and may be used in food in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and subsequent amendments. It has been assigned a Flavoring Evaluation Procedure (FEMA GRAS) number (2611) by the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association, indicating professional assessment of safety when used at appropriate levels.

## Key Studies

The safety profile of isoeugenol has been assessed through:

1. Acute and subchronic oral toxicity studies in laboratory animals, which established relatively high LD50 values indicating low acute toxicity
2. Metabolic pathway studies demonstrating rapid hepatic metabolism and elimination
3. Genotoxicity assessments showing negative results in standard screening tests
4. Historical use data spanning decades of food industry application

The safety assessment of isoeugenol is strengthened by its natural occurrence in foods at low levels and its chemical similarity to eugenol, which has an extensive safety history. Current evidence supports the safety of isoeugenol when used as a flavoring agent at typical food use levels.

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