Methyl eugenol (phenylpropane) dosage

Methyl eugenol (CAS No. 93-15-2) is a natural organic compound belonging to the phenylpropane . It is present in variable form in many essential oils (basil, lemongrass, clove, bay leaf, rose, anise, etc.).
Known for its aromatic and fixing properties , it is however regulated due to its allergenic and genotoxic potential .

The dosage of methyl eugenol is therefore essential for:

• Monitor regulatory compliance of products containing plant extracts.
• Monitor residual levels in cosmetic or nutraceutical formulations.
• Ensure labeling safety according to Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 on cosmetic products and the CLP (Classification, Labelling, Packaging) Regulation.

Analytical methods used

The analysis of methyl eugenol is based on high-precision chromatographic techniques, allowing the molecule to be separated and quantified in complex matrices:

• GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) : reference method for the specific detection and structural confirmation of methyl eugenol.
• GC-FID (Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection) : Used for the precise quantification of the compound in essential oils or aromatic extracts.

These techniques ensure high sensitivity (detection limits of the order of µg/kg) and efficient separation of neighboring compounds (eugenol, isoeugenol, safrole).

The analysis complies with ISO 11024-1 and ISO 11024-2 , as well as the guidelines of Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 on the declaration of allergenic fragrance substances.

Affected matrices

The dosage of methyl eugenol applies to different matrices from cosmetics, phytotherapy or nutrition:

• Essential oils (basil, lemongrass, clove, bay leaf, rose, tarragon, etc.).
• Plant extracts used in food supplements and nutraceutical products.
• Finished cosmetic products : perfumes, creams, lotions, soaps, massage oils.
• Natural flavors and formulations intended for human consumption.

Industrial and regulatory applications

Methyl eugenol analysis is crucial to ensure:

• The safety of cosmetic and aromatic products , by limiting consumer exposure.
• Traceability of essential oils in natural supply chains.
• Regulatory compliance with European Directive 2003/15/EC and the REACH regulation concerning potentially toxic substances.

The results obtained make it possible to determine whether the products comply with the limit values ​​set for methyl eugenol in cosmetic and food formulations, and to adapt the concentrations if necessary.

This analysis can be supplemented by:

• The dosage of eugenol , another phenylpropane frequently present in essential oils.
• The dosage of isoeugenol , also subject to restriction.
• The dosage of safrole , an aromatic compound classified as a CMR substance.

Interpretation of results

The results of the methyl eugenol dosage are expressed in mg/kg or in % (m/m) depending on the matrix.
They allow:

• Check compliance with European regulatory thresholds .
• Identify sources of exposure in complex formulations.
• Ensure safety and transparency of labeling for natural or processed products.

The analysis reports include GC-MS chromatograms and mass spectra, allowing unambiguous confirmation of the presence of methyl eugenol.

YesWeLab expertise

YesWeLab provides a network of ISO 17025 and COFRAC accredited partner laboratories , experts in chromatographic analyses of volatile compounds .

Thanks to the YesWeLab digital platform , you can order your analyses, track your samples and consult your results online in a centralized and rapid manner.

For any specific requests, contact our scientific team to determine the method best suited to your matrix and your regulatory obligations.