# Myricitrin

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/myricitrin
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/myricitrin.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 17912-87-7
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Myricitrin is a naturally occurring flavonoid compound derived from plant sources, primarily used as a flavoring agent or flavoring adjuvant in food products. It contributes to the taste profile of foods and beverages while being obtained from natural botanical origins.

## 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 Myricitrin?

Myricitrin (CAS Number 17912-87-7) is a naturally occurring flavonoid glycoside found in various plants, particularly in the genus Myrica and other plant species. Chemically, it is a quercetin-type flavonoid compound. The molecule consists of a flavonoid core structure with attached sugar moieties, making it a glycosidic compound. Myricitrin is classified as a flavoring agent or flavoring adjuvant, meaning it is used to enhance, modify, or contribute to the flavor profile of food and beverage products.

## Common Uses

Myricitrin is primarily employed in the food industry as a flavoring agent. Its natural occurrence in plants means it can be extracted and utilized to provide flavor characteristics to various food applications. It may be used in beverages, confectionery, and other processed foods where flavor enhancement is desired. Because it is naturally derived, manufacturers may use myricitrin as part of formulations seeking natural or plant-based ingredient profiles. The compound's flavoring properties make it an alternative to synthetic flavoring agents in some applications.

## Safety Assessment

Myricitrin has a notably clean safety record according to available FDA data. There are zero reported adverse events associated with this additive in FDA databases, and no recalls have been issued related to myricitrin-containing products. This absence of reported incidents suggests a favorable safety profile in food applications. As a naturally occurring plant compound, myricitrin is structurally related to other quercetin flavonoids that have long histories in plant-based foods and traditional preparations. The lack of adverse event reports and recalls indicates that myricitrin has not raised safety concerns in regulatory or consumer reporting systems.

## Regulatory Status

Myricitrin has not received FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) designation. GRAS status requires specific approval through either the FDA's formal review process or through consensus of qualified scientific experts. The absence of GRAS status does not indicate a safety concern; rather, it reflects that the additive either has not undergone formal GRAS petition review or such review has not been completed. In the United States, food additives without GRAS status may still be used in food products, though regulatory requirements vary depending on how they are applied and in what context. Manufacturers using myricitrin should ensure compliance with all applicable FDA regulations and labeling requirements.

## Key Studies

Myricitrin, as a flavonoid compound, belongs to a well-researched class of plant polyphenols. Scientific literature on flavonoids generally, and quercetin derivatives specifically, demonstrates the chemical stability and composition of these compounds. Research on plant flavonoids has focused on their chemical properties, botanical sources, and occurrence in traditional foods and beverages. However, specific human safety or toxicology studies dedicated solely to myricitrin as a food additive appear limited in published literature. The safety profile is informed primarily by the compound's natural occurrence in foods and plants consumed without reported adverse effects historically. As with many naturally occurring plant compounds used as flavorings, the safety assessment relies on the track record of use and the absence of reported adverse events 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. "Myricitrin — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/myricitrin. Accessed 2026-05-19.