# Tuberose, Oil (polianthes Tuberosa L.)

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 8024-05-3
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-04

## Summary

Tuberose oil is a natural flavoring agent derived from the tuberose flower (Polianthes tuberosa L.). It is used in food and beverage applications to impart floral and aromatic characteristics, though it is not currently approved as a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) substance by the FDA.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | approved |
| Canada | approved |
| Australia | approved |
| Japan | approved |
| South Korea | approved |
| Brazil | approved |
| China | approved |
| India | approved |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Tuberose Oil?

Tuberose oil (CAS Number: 8024-05-3) is an essential oil extracted from the flowers of Polianthes tuberosa L., a tropical flowering plant native to Mexico. The oil is obtained through steam distillation or solvent extraction of the tuberose flower petals. It is characterized by a rich, intensely floral and slightly fruity aroma with warm, creamy undertones. The oil contains numerous volatile compounds including indole, methyl anthranilate, and various terpenes that contribute to its distinctive sensory profile.

## Common Uses

Tuberose oil is primarily used as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry, particularly in:

- Perfumery and fragrance applications
- Liqueurs and alcoholic beverages
- Confectionery products
- Baked goods and desserts
- Beverages including soft drinks and specialty drinks
- Cosmetic and personal care products

The oil is typically used in very small quantities, as its potent aroma requires minimal dosing to achieve desired flavor profiles. It is valued by food manufacturers and flavorists for adding complexity and sophistication to premium food products.

## Safety Assessment

According to FDA records, there have been zero reported adverse events associated with tuberose oil and zero product recalls attributed to this ingredient. However, it is important to note that tuberose oil does not currently hold GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status with the FDA, which means it has not undergone the formal review process for safety confirmation at specified levels of use.

The absence of GRAS designation does not necessarily indicate safety concerns. Rather, it suggests that formal toxicological and safety data submissions have not been evaluated through the FDA's GRAS notification process. Many natural flavoring ingredients operate under this status, particularly those from traditional or historical use.

As with most essential oils, tuberose oil should be used at appropriate levels in food applications. Essential oils are potent substances, and excessive consumption of concentrated forms could theoretically cause irritation. However, the levels used in flavored foods are typically minute and well below any concern threshold.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, tuberose oil may be used as a flavoring agent in food products, though without explicit GRAS status. The FDA permits natural flavoring agents, including essential oils, when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices and at levels that achieve the intended flavoring effect without creating safety concerns.

In the European Union, tuberose absolute and tuberose oil are recognized as flavoring substances. However, regulatory frameworks vary by region, and manufacturers must ensure compliance with local regulations when formulating products for specific markets.

The lack of GRAS status means that products containing tuberose oil may not require specific labeling declarations in some jurisdictions where it falls under "natural flavor" or "flavoring" categories, though labeling requirements vary by country and product type.

## Key Studies

While tuberose oil has a long history of use in fragrance and traditional applications, published toxicological studies specifically focused on this ingredient are limited in the scientific literature. The safety profile is largely supported by:

- Historical use data and traditional applications
- The absence of adverse event reports in FDA databases
- General safety data on similar floral essential oils
- The minimal concentrations used in food applications

The EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) has evaluated various floral flavoring compounds, though comprehensive assessments of tuberose oil specifically may vary. Manufacturers using this ingredient typically rely on established safety data for similar essential oils and compounds.

## 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. "Tuberose, Oil (polianthes Tuberosa L.) — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/tuberose-oil-polianthes-tuberosa-l. Accessed 2026-05-20.