# Kola Nut, Extract (cola Acuminata Schott Et Endl.)

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 68916-19-8
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Kola Nut Extract is a natural flavoring ingredient derived from the kola nut (Cola acuminata), a tropical plant native to West Africa. It is used in the food and beverage industry primarily to impart a characteristic cola-like flavor to various products.

## 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 Kola Nut Extract?

Kola Nut Extract (Cola acuminata Schott Et Endl.) is a natural flavoring substance obtained from the seeds of the kola tree, a plant native to the rainforests of West Africa. The extract is derived through processing the kola nuts, which contain several naturally occurring compounds including caffeine, theobromine, and various volatile aromatic compounds. The CAS number 68916-19-8 identifies this specific ingredient in regulatory and chemical databases.

## Common Uses

Kola nut extract is primarily used as a flavoring agent in beverages and food products. Historically, it was a key ingredient in early cola soft drink formulations, contributing both flavor and a natural source of caffeine. Today, it continues to be used in:

- Soft drinks and cola-flavored beverages
- Confectionery products
- Flavor compounds and syrups
- Select food and beverage formulations seeking natural cola flavoring

The extract provides a distinctive bitter-sweet taste profile with subtle nutty undertones that characterize traditional cola beverages.

## Safety Assessment

Kola nut extract has been used for centuries in traditional African cultures, both as a food ingredient and in ceremonial applications. The FDA has received zero reported adverse events associated with kola nut extract, and there are no documented FDA recalls involving this ingredient. This safety record reflects its long history of use and generally recognized status in food applications.

As a natural ingredient, kola nut extract contains caffeine and theobromine, naturally occurring stimulant compounds also found in coffee, tea, and chocolate. The caffeine content varies depending on extraction methods and source materials. Consumers should be aware of the cumulative caffeine intake when consuming products containing kola nut extract, particularly in beverages.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has assessed kola nut flavoring substances, and it remains listed among approved flavoring ingredients in EU regulations. No significant toxicological concerns have been identified in the available scientific literature regarding its use as a flavoring agent in foods.

## Regulatory Status

Kola nut extract does not carry FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status, which means it has not undergone the formal GRAS notification process with the FDA. However, this classification does not indicate safety concerns; rather, it reflects that formal GRAS documentation was not submitted or completed for this specific ingredient. The ingredient is permissible in food products under current FDA regulations as a natural flavoring.

It is listed in the FDA's inventory of flavoring substances and is considered acceptable for use in foods at levels consistent with good manufacturing practices. The specific regulatory status may vary by country, and manufacturers should verify compliance with local regulations in their target markets.

## Key Studies

Limited peer-reviewed research has specifically examined kola nut extract as a food additive in isolation. Most available data comes from studies of kola nut as a whole food or traditional medicine preparation. Historical use documentation and safety assessments by regulatory bodies provide the primary basis for understanding its safety profile.

Studies on kola nuts and their constituent compounds (caffeine, theobromine) align with broader research on these naturally occurring substances in other food sources. No unique safety concerns specific to kola nut extract have been identified in comparative analysis with other caffeinated natural flavorings. The absence of adverse event reports and recalls provides additional reassurance regarding its current use in food applications.

## 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. "Kola Nut, Extract (cola Acuminata Schott Et Endl.) — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/kola-nut-extract-cola-acuminata-schott-et-endl. Accessed 2026-05-17.