Learn Glossary flavoring

Musk Ambrette

Level 4Significant concernsIn Winter's Dictionary

Musk Ambrette is a flavoring — Synthetic musk fragrance/flavoring (now banned in direct-skin-contact products)

What it does

Synthetic musk fragrance/flavoring (now banned in direct-skin-contact products)

Where you'll see it

fragrances; some food products

What the research says

Neurotoxic properties first discovered in 1967. Damages myelin (the covering of nerve fibers). Causes photosensitivity and contact dermatitis. Readily absorbed through skin.

Regulatory status

  • Notes: Banned in cosmetics; still used in food but not direct skin products

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): Found to have neurotoxic properties... reportedly damages the myelin, the covering of nerve fibers