Onion Oleoresin

Product Name: Onion Oleoresin

Botanical Name: Allium cepa

Extraction Method: Solvent extraction (usually using food-grade solvents such as ethanol or hexane)

Appearance: Pale yellow to golden-brown liquid

Odor: Strong, characteristic onion odor

Taste: Pungent, slightly sweet

Chemical and Physical Properties

• Specific Gravity (at 25°C): 0.92 – 0.96
• Refractive Index (at 25°C): 1.490 – 1.510
• Flash Point: ≥ 100°C (depends on solvent used)
• Viscosity: Medium, depending on the concentration and processing method
• Moisture Content: ≤ 3%
• pH: 5.0 – 6.0 (depending on concentration)

Active Compounds

• Thiosulfates: Contains sulfur compounds (such as diallyl disulfide) which contribute to the distinctive onion odor and flavor.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin and other flavonoids with antioxidant properties.
• Volatile Oils: Including sulfur compounds like allyl propyl disulfide and propyl thiosulfate, contributing to its pungency and health benefits.
• Fructosans: Inulin, a prebiotic fiber that may promote digestive health.

Quality Parameters

• Purity: ≥ 95% (based on onion extract content)

Heavy Metals:

• Lead (Pb): ≤ 5 ppm
• Arsenic (As): ≤ 2 ppm
• Cadmium (Cd): ≤ 1 ppm
• Mercury (Hg): ≤ 0.1 ppm

Microbial Limits:

• Total Plate Count: ≤ 1,000 cfu/g
• Yeast & Mold: ≤ 100 cfu/g
• E. Coli: Negative
• Salmonella: Negative

Solubility: Soluble in ethanol, oils, and organic solvents; insoluble in water

Shelf Life: 1-2 years from the manufacturing date when stored in optimal conditions.

Applications

• Food Industry: Commonly used as a flavoring agent in soups, sauces, seasonings, processed meats, snacks, and dressings for its potent onion flavor.
• Cosmetic Industry: Incorporated into some skincare products for its potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
• Pharmaceuticals: Used in supplements and health formulations for its potential benefits in digestion, cardiovascular health, and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Natural Cleaning: Due to its natural antimicrobial properties, it may be used in cleaning products.