Learn Glossary flavoring

Geraniol

Level 2Generally safeIn Winter's Dictionary

Geraniol is a flavoring — Berry, lemon, rose, apple, cherry, peach, honey, root beer flavoring

What it does

Berry, lemon, rose, apple, cherry, peach, honey, root beer flavoring

Where you'll see it

Apples, bay leaves, cherries, grapefruit, ginger, lavender, beverages

What the research says

Can cause allergic reactions. Deaths reported from ingestion of citronella oil (93% geraniol)—gastric mucosa severely damaged.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: GRAS

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): deaths have been reported from ingestion of unknown amounts of citronella oil, which is 93 percent geraniol