# Orange Peel

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/orange-peel
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/orange-peel.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 977070-86-2
**Category:** colorant
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Orange peel is a natural colorant and flavoring agent derived from citrus fruit that provides orange hue and citrus flavor to food products. It functions as a color adjunct, flavoring agent, and texturizer 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 Orange Peel?

Orange peel is a natural food additive derived from the outer colored portion of orange fruit (Citrus sinensis). It contains naturally occurring compounds including carotenoids, flavonoids, and essential oils that contribute to its coloring and flavoring properties. The additive is available in various forms including whole dried peel, powdered peel, peel extracts, and concentrated preparations. Orange peel's primary active compounds responsible for color include beta-carotene and other carotenoid pigments that provide the characteristic orange coloration.

## Common Uses

Orange peel is utilized in food manufacturing across multiple product categories. It serves as a natural colorant in beverages, confectionery products, baked goods, and dairy products. The additive also functions as a flavoring agent, imparting authentic citrus notes to foods and beverages. Additionally, orange peel contributes textural properties in certain applications, particularly in baked goods and textured food products. It is commonly found in marmalades, jams, liqueurs, dietary supplements, and flavored beverages. The additive appeals to manufacturers seeking natural color and flavor solutions as alternatives to synthetic additives.

## Safety Assessment

Orange peel has a long history of consumption as part of whole orange fruit and as a culinary ingredient. The FDA has recorded zero adverse events associated with orange peel as a food additive, and no recalls have been issued. The additive is generally recognized as safe when derived from edible orange varieties and processed appropriately. Orange peel contains compounds like limonene and other terpenes that are naturally present in citrus fruits consumed regularly. Individuals with citrus sensitivities or allergies should exercise caution, as orange peel may trigger reactions in susceptible populations. The safety profile is supported by its long history of use in traditional cuisine and food preparation across numerous cultures.

## Regulatory Status

Orange peel does not currently hold GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status from the FDA, which indicates that formal safety documentation for this specific application has not been formally submitted or established through the GRAS notification process. However, this designation does not indicate safety concerns; rather, it reflects the current regulatory classification status. Orange peel may be used in foods under various regulatory pathways depending on the specific application and intended use. In the European Union, natural citrus extracts and peel preparations are permitted colorants in food applications. The regulatory treatment of orange peel varies based on the specific form used (whole, powder, extract) and the concentration in finished products.

## Key Studies

Limited peer-reviewed research specifically addresses orange peel as a food additive, though extensive literature examines orange fruit and its components. Studies on citrus peel constituents document the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of compounds found in orange peel, including hesperidin and naringin. Research on carotenoids from citrus sources confirms their bioavailability and safety in food applications. The absence of adverse event reports and recalls suggests a favorable safety record in commercial food applications. Most safety data derives from the well-established safety profile of whole oranges and citrus consumption, combined with the recognition of orange peel as a traditional food ingredient.

## Brands using Orange Peel

- The Nutmeg Spice Co. Ltd. (2 products)
- GMP Global Marketing Inc. (1 product)
- Lefty's Spices LLC. (1 product)
- Melegatti SpA (1 product)
- Rotisystems, Inc. (1 product)
- The Daily Record (1 product)
- The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (1 product)

## 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. "Orange Peel — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/orange-peel. Accessed 2026-05-19.