Consisting of bergamot, lemon, lime and grapefruit options, the range is designed to enable formulators to use citrus oils creatively without exceeding furanocoumarin limits.
Regulation on furanocoumarin levels
EU legislation is pending that threatens to impose a limit of 1ppm on furanocoumarin in finished cosmetic products.
Reducing the permitted quantity of furanocoumarin to minutely low levels is being considered because of fears that the organic chemical compounds cause allergic skin reactions.
Developing cold pressed citrus oils with low furanocoumarin content has therefore become a priority.
Treatt said the company has used its expertise and proprietary technology to reduce furanocoumarin levels, “broadening the possibilities for perfumers to incorporate true citrus aromas into their products”.
Different aromas in the range
The UK-based fragrance and flavour firm said each product in the new range has an aroma suited to different cosmetic products.
Bergamot oil is described as being rich and fruity with a sweet cologne top note while grapefruit oil is said to be full and zesty. Lime oil is tangy and best suited to fragrances and lemon oil is described as having herbal and green characteristics that sit alongside the odour of fresh lemon peel.
Treatt said organic versions of the citrus oils are scheduled to be launched in the coming months.
The citrus oils join Treatt’s existing portfolio of ingredients for the cosmetic market that includes chamomile oil, raspberry fragrance oil and organic Eartholates.