News

Rowanberry Extract (Sorbus Aucuparia Fruit Extract): Parasorbic Acid from Rowan Berries for Preservative and Antioxidant Formulations

Rowanberry Extract (INCI: Sorbus Aucuparia Fruit Extract) is obtained from the fruit of the rowan tree, also known as the rowanberry or mountain ash. CONIUNCTA® offers this fruit extract in three water-based carrier variants: with Glycerin, with Propylene Glycol and with Pentylene Glycol. For formulators, the extract is of particular interest due to its documented primary marker, parasorbic acid, which brings a profile with a natural preservation approach and antioxidant support. The recommended use concentration is 2 to 5 percent, with the extract share in the product at around 30 percent. As a raw material, the extract is suitable for cosmetic as well as selected food applications. Parasorbic acid as the leading marker of rowanberry Characteristic of Rowanberry Extract is parasorbic acid, an α,β-unsaturated δ-lactone. The literature content in the dried plant is 0.4 to 0.7 percent, and in the finished product an indicative 98 to 220 µg/mL. At a typical use level of 3.5 percent in a cosmetic formulation, this results in a calculated content of 3.4 to 7.7 µg/mL in the formulation, and at a 2 percent use level in a food application, correspondingly 2.0 to 4.4 µg/mL. These figures form the basis for classifying Rowanberry Extract in a formulation concept in a targeted and traceable manner. In addition to parasorbic acid, the CDS documents further compounds: chlorogenic acid at 0.5 to 2.0 percent, anthocyanins at 0.1 to 0.3 percent, as well as sorbitol. Chlorogenic acid and anthocyanins are well-known plant polyphenols and pigments, respectively, that contribute to the overall profile of the fruit extract. Documented efficacy profile for cosmetic formulations For cosmetic applications, the CDS documents natural antimicrobial preservation support as well as antioxidant support. The targets named are disruption of microbial membranes and inhibition of lipid oxidation. The regulatory-supported claims include astringent, balancing and skin-plumping. These claims are based on the phytochemical profile and published literature; substantiation for the specific finished product must be provided by the marketer in accordance with EC 655/2013. Important for correct classification: the extract is a raw material. The effects mentioned describe the documented substance profile and do not replace product-specific testing, particularly when the extract is considered as a contribution to a preservation concept. A complete standalone preservation system cannot be derived from the available data; suitability must be confirmed in the respective finished product through appropriate testing (such as challenge tests). What sets rowanberry extract apart? Frequently asked questions about the fruit extract Search queries such as "rowanberry extract", "rowan berry fruit extract" or "rowanberry oil preservative" show that this fruit extract and its preservative potential are being searched for internationally. For classification: What is rowanberry extract? "Rowanberry extract" or "rowan extract" is the English term for the rowan or rowanberry fruit extract (INCI: Sorbus Aucuparia Fruit Extract). Why is it associated with preservation? The CDS documents natural antimicrobial preservation support with the target of microbial membrane disruption. The search query "rowanberry oil preservative" reflects this interest; however, the CONIUNCTA® variants are water-based (Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol) and not oil-based. Which plant part does it come from? Exclusively from the fruit of the rowan tree, Sorbus aucuparia. Three carrier variants: Glycerin, Propylene Glycol and Pentylene Glycol Rowanberry Extract is available in three water-based carrier systems that differ in composition and use logic: Glycerin variant (INCI: Glycerin, Sorbus Aucuparia Fruit Extract): standardization medium Glycerin (≥ 99.5 %), approx. 70 % of the final product, extract share approx. 30 %, extraction solvent purified water. According to the dossier, this variant is suitable for food applications. Propylene Glycol variant (INCI: Aqua, Propylene Glycol, Sorbus Aucuparia Fruit Extract): approx. 40 % water, approx. 30 % extract, approx. 30 % Propylene Glycol. Pentylene Glycol variant (INCI: Aqua, Pentylene Glycol, Sorbus Aucuparia Fruit Extract): approx. 50 % water, approx. 30 % extract, approx. 20 % Pentylene Glycol. CAS no. 84776-90-9. All variants are suitable for cosmetic applications and can be used in vegan formulations. The extract is also free of fragrance allergens according to Annex III of Regulation (EC) 1223/2009. The choice of carrier variant depends on the formulation environment, the desired base structure of the formulation, and whether a food application is intended. Formulators can find further water- and glycerin-based raw materials in our category of Glycerin Extracts as well as in the overview of classic plant extracts. Use in food and dietary supplement applications For food applications, the CDS documents use as a natural preservative and antioxidant with the targets antimicrobial activity and inhibition of lipid oxidation. As an intake reference, the dossier cites the EFSA ADI of 25 mg/kg body weight per day for sorbic acid (E 200). The recommended use concentration for food is 1 to 3 percent, for example in beverages, dietary supplements and functional foods. The Glycerin carrier variant is intended for food use. Responsibility for legally compliant use, the classification as additive and novel food, as well as labeling of the finished product, lies with the marketer. Physical data, stability and handling Rowanberry Extract is a clear liquid with a characteristic color (amber to light brown), with a density of 1.03 to 1.06. Shelf life is 24 months when stored dry between 10 and 30 °C in the original sealed container. Temperature-dependent color changes may occur during storage; should turbidity or precipitation occur, filtration is possible without affecting product quality. Specific pH values, relative density and refractive index can be found batch-specifically in the respective CoA. According to the safety data sheet, the product is not a hazardous substance under Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008: no pictogram, no signal word, no H-/P-statements. It is not a PBT or vPvB substance, shows no endocrine-disrupting properties according to the relevant regulations, and is not classified as dangerous goods under transport regulations. During processing, vapors and aerosols should not be inhaled; eye protection is recommended. Documentation and sourcing at CONIUNCTA® For Rowanberry Extract, we provide complete technical documentation: TDS for each carrier variant, SDS and CDS with marker profile, as well as batch-specific certificates of analysis. Registered customers can access the relevant data sheets via our technical documentation. Background information on our process can be found on the page about AVE Technology. Our technical team provides individual advice on formulation and application questions. Would you like to incorporate rowanberry fruit extract into your formulation or check a suitable carrier variant? View Rowanberry Extract in the CONIUNCTA® shop and request samples or the dossier. CONIUNCTA® - Raw materials, data and services for future-proof formulations.