# Osmanthus Absolute

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> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/osmanthus-absolute.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 977103-81-3
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Osmanthus Absolute is a concentrated flavoring extract derived from osmanthus flowers, used to impart floral, fruity, and sweet notes in food and beverages. It functions as a flavoring agent in various food applications where natural or natural-identical flavor profiles are desired.

## 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 Osmanthus Absolute?

Osmanthus Absolute is a concentrated liquid extract obtained from the flowers of osmanthus plants (Osmanthus fragrans), small evergreen shrubs native to Asia and widely cultivated for their intensely fragrant blooms. The absolute is produced through solvent extraction methods, resulting in a highly concentrated form of the plant's aromatic compounds. With CAS Number 977103-81-3, this substance captures the complex sensory profile characteristic of osmanthus flowers, which are prized in traditional Asian cuisines and modern food manufacturing.

## Common Uses

Osmanthus Absolute is utilized as a flavoring agent in numerous food and beverage applications. Its primary uses include:

- Beverages: teas, flavored waters, and specialty drinks seeking floral notes
- Confectionery: candies, pastilles, and gums where fruity-floral profiles enhance appeal
- Baked goods: where subtle sweet, fruity characteristics complement vanilla and other base flavors
- Dairy products: yogurts and flavored milk beverages
- Desserts and ice creams: contributing distinctive aromatic components
- Asian food products: traditional applications in cosmetic and culinary preparations

The compound is particularly valued in premium and specialty food formulations where authentic floral character is desired without synthetic alternatives.

## Safety Assessment

Osmanthus Absolute has generated minimal safety concerns in regulatory databases. The FDA has recorded zero adverse events associated with this additive, and no recalls have been issued. While the substance has not received formal FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status, this reflects administrative designation pathways rather than safety findings. The absence of adverse events and recalls indicates a favorable safety profile in practical food applications.

The safety of botanical extracts like osmanthus absolute depends on multiple factors including extraction methods, residual solvent levels, microbial quality, and usage levels in final products. Reputable manufacturers typically employ validated extraction processes and quality controls to ensure safety and consistency. As with all food additives, acceptable daily intake levels and appropriate usage rates should be established based on the specific food application and regional regulatory guidance.

Historically, osmanthus flowers have been used for centuries in Asian traditional beverages and culinary applications without documented widespread adverse effects, though historical use does not constitute formal safety assessment by modern standards.

## Regulatory Status

Osmanthus Absolute's regulatory status varies internationally. In the United States, while not listed as GRAS through the formal FDA notification process, botanical flavor extracts from plant sources can be used under specific conditions when manufacturers provide appropriate safety documentation. The European Union's Register of Flavoring Substances includes various osmanthus-derived ingredients, reflecting regulatory acceptance in that jurisdiction.

Manufacturers utilizing osmanthus absolute must comply with regional regulations regarding flavoring agents, including limitations on solvent residues and requirements for proper identification and labeling. Importers and producers should verify compliance with local food safety regulations before commercial use.

## Key Studies

Scientific literature on osmanthus absolute specifically is limited compared to individual osmanthus volatile compounds. However, research on osmanthus flowers and their constituents has identified key aromatic compounds including benzyl acetate, linalool, and various terpenes responsible for the characteristic fragrance and flavor profile. These compounds are widely recognized as food flavoring components.

Toxicological assessments of botanical extracts generally focus on the individual aromatic compounds present rather than the complete absolute. The volatile organic compounds found in osmanthus have been extensively studied in fragrance and flavor applications, with established safety profiles at typical usage 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. "Osmanthus Absolute — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/osmanthus-absolute. Accessed 2026-05-19.