# Labdanum, Absolute (cistus Spp.)

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 977046-98-2
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Labdanum Absolute is a natural flavoring ingredient derived from the resin of Cistus species plants, commonly used to provide warm, amber-like flavor notes in food and beverage products. It functions as a flavoring agent and adjuvant in various food applications.

## 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 Labdanum Absolute?

Labdanum Absolute (CAS Number: 977046-98-2) is a concentrated flavoring ingredient extracted from the resinous secretions of plants in the Cistus genus, also known as rockrose. The extraction process typically involves solvent extraction of the raw labdanum resin, resulting in a concentrated absolute form. This ingredient has a long history of use in fragrance and flavor applications, valued for its complex aromatic profile that provides warm, slightly sweet, amber-like, and balsamic notes to food products.

## Common Uses

Labdanum Absolute is used primarily as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry. Its applications include use in confectionery, beverages, baked goods, and other processed food products where amber or warm spice-like flavor characteristics are desired. The ingredient functions as both a primary flavoring agent and as a flavor adjuvant to enhance or modify the sensory profile of finished products. Due to its concentrated nature, only small quantities are typically required to achieve desired flavor effects, which is consistent with standard industry practice for essential oils and flavor extracts.

## Safety Assessment

Labdanum Absolute has generated no documented adverse events or FDA recalls as of the latest available data. The ingredient has been used historically in food and fragrance applications without reported safety concerns at typical use levels. Its safety profile is supported by its long history of traditional use in Mediterranean regions where Cistus plants are native.

The absence of adverse event reports and recalls provides a positive safety indicator. As with all flavoring ingredients, safety is related to exposure levels; labdanum absolute is used in small quantities in finished food products, which further supports safe use when applied according to industry standards for flavoring agents.

## Regulatory Status

Labdanum Absolute is not currently listed on the FDA's Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) list. However, it may be used in food products under the FDA's Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association (FEMA) GRAS framework or through the Food Chemicals Codex (FCC) specifications. The ingredient is permitted for use in food applications in various international jurisdictions, including the European Union, where it is recognized as a natural flavoring agent under EU Regulation 1334/2008.

In the United States, flavoring ingredients not on the FDA GRAS list can still be legally used if they have appropriate safety documentation and comply with FDA regulations under 21 CFR Part 182. The absence of a formal FDA GRAS determination does not indicate unsafe status; rather, it reflects the regulatory pathway under which the ingredient is authorized.

## Key Studies

Scientific literature on labdanum absolute is limited compared to some synthetic flavorings, but the ingredient's safety profile is supported by its long-standing use history and the extensive body of research on Cistus species plants. Studies on cistus plant constituents have focused primarily on the plant's traditional medicinal properties and antioxidant characteristics rather than food safety specifically.

The lack of toxicological concerns in available literature, combined with zero documented adverse events and zero FDA recalls, suggests the ingredient operates with an acceptable safety margin at typical food use levels. Regulatory authorities in the EU and other regions have maintained approval of labdanum absolute, indicating ongoing confidence in its safety for food use.

## 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. "Labdanum, Absolute (cistus Spp.) — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/labdanum-absolute-cistus-spp. Accessed 2026-05-19.