Cinnamon Oil

Cinnamon oil is a concentrated liquid extracted from the bark or leaves of cinnamon trees. It is produced through steam distillation or solvent extraction, capturing the aromatic compounds that give cinnamon its characteristic warm, spicy flavor and scent.

Manufacturers use cinnamon oil primarily as a flavoring agent to impart a strong cinnamon taste and aroma. It is found in a variety of products, including chewing gum, mints, baked goods, beverages, and confectionery.

Cinnamon oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring. While cinnamon itself has been studied for potential health effects, research on concentrated cinnamon oil is less extensive. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated cinnamon and its components, but no specific numeric limits for cinnamon oil are typically set for general flavoring use. Some studies suggest potential benefits, while others caution about high intake due to compounds like coumarin, which can be harmful in large doses.