# Peach Kernel, Extract(prunus Persica Sieb Et Zucc.)

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 8023-98-1
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Peach kernel extract is a natural flavoring agent derived from the kernels of peach fruits (Prunus persica). It is used in the food industry to impart peach and almond-like flavor notes to various food and beverage 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 Peach Kernel, Extract?

Peach kernel extract (CAS Number 8023-98-1) is a flavoring preparation obtained from the kernels of peach fruits belonging to the species Prunus persica Sieb et Zucc. The extract is produced through various extraction methods to concentrate the volatile and non-volatile flavor compounds present in peach kernels. These compounds contribute characteristic fruity and slightly almond-like aromatic notes commonly desired in food flavoring applications.

Peach kernels naturally contain amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside that breaks down into hydrogen cyanide when processed or digested. However, the levels present in properly processed food-grade extracts used in flavoring applications are subject to safety controls to ensure consumer safety.

## Common Uses

Peach kernel extract is employed as a flavoring agent and flavor adjuvant in the food and beverage industry. Common applications include:

- Confectionery and candy products
- Baked goods and desserts
- Beverages including soft drinks and alcoholic drinks
- Dairy products such as yogurt and ice cream
- Fruit-flavored processed foods
- Liqueurs and spirits

The extract is valued for its ability to enhance or create authentic peach flavors in products where fresh peach ingredients may be impractical or cost-prohibitive.

## Safety Assessment

As of the available FDA database records, there have been zero adverse events reported and zero recalls associated with peach kernel extract. This indicates no documented incidents of consumer harm linked to this ingredient in the United States market.

The primary safety consideration for peach kernel extract relates to its amygdalin content. While amygdalin can theoretically release cyanide upon metabolism, the quantities used in flavoring applications are minimal and considered safe by regulatory authorities. The extract undergoes processing and dilution before reaching finished food products, further reducing any potential risk.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and other international food safety bodies have established guidelines for the use of stone fruit kernel extracts in food flavoring, with established safety thresholds that account for amygdalin content.

## Regulatory Status

Peach kernel extract has not received FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status, meaning it has not been formally affirmed through the standard GRAS notification process. However, the absence of GRAS status does not indicate the ingredient is unsafe; rather, it reflects that formal FDA GRAS affirmation has not been pursued or completed by manufacturers.

The ingredient is permitted for use in the United States as a flavoring agent under FDA regulations governing natural flavoring substances. It falls under 21 CFR Part 182, which outlines acceptable flavoring agents for use in food. Similar regulatory frameworks exist in the European Union, where it is listed among permitted natural flavorings.

Many countries recognize peach kernel extract as a permitted food flavoring, provided it meets purity and safety specifications regarding contaminant levels and amygdalin concentration.

## Key Studies

Limited published peer-reviewed research exists specifically on peach kernel extract as a food additive, which is typical for traditional flavoring ingredients. The safety profile relies primarily on:

- Historical use data: Peach flavoring from kernels has a long history of use in food and beverage production
- Regulatory determinations by food safety authorities in multiple countries
- Toxicological assessments of amygdalin content at levels used in flavoring applications
- Manufacturing standards that control processing conditions and final concentration levels

The absence of reported adverse events and recalls in FDA databases, combined with regulatory acceptance in multiple jurisdictions, suggests an acceptable safety profile when used as intended in food flavoring 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. "Peach Kernel, Extract(prunus Persica Sieb Et Zucc.) — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/peach-kernel-extract-prunus-persica-sieb-et-zucc. Accessed 2026-05-14.