Castor Oil (Food Grade)
Castor Oil (Food Grade) is a pale yellow, viscous vegetable oil derived by cold pressing the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. Known for its high content of ricinoleic acid, it has a mild flavor and is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries. As a food-grade oil, it is purified to meet strict quality and safety standards. It serves both as a laxative agent and a food additive, often used in flavor carriers, coatings, and processing aids. The oil’s high stability and low moisture content also make it suitable for specialty industrial applications in food-safe environments.
Uses
Primary Uses
Food & Beverage Industry
- Used as a food-grade carrier oil for flavors and colorants
- Acts as a mold inhibitor in food packaging and coatings
- Used in the manufacture of food-grade lubricants for processing equipment
- Serves as a release agent in baking and confectionery applications
- Utilized in certain flavor formulations, especially in chewing gums and candies
- Functions as a processing aid in food-grade formulations and supplements
Pharmaceuticals
- Employed as an oral stimulant laxative due to its ricinoleic acid content
- Used as a base or excipient in soft gel capsules and emulsions
- Found in topical medications and skin ointments for moisturizing and barrier protection
Nutraceuticals
- Added to dietary supplements for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties
- Used as a carrier in oil-based vitamin and herbal blends
Secondary Uses
Cosmetic and Personal Care
- While primarily food grade, it is also used in personal care where food-grade certification is required (e.g., lip balms)
Industrial Applications (Food-Contact Safe)
- Used in food-processing lubricants and greases that may have incidental food contact
Included in the formulation of biodegradable packaging materials
Basic Identification Attributes
- Botanical Source: Ricinus communis
- Common/Trade Name: Castor Oil (Food Grade)
- INCI Name: Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil
- CAS Number: 8001-79-4
- HS Code: 1515.30
- Synonyms: Castor Bean Oil, Ricinus Oil
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Viscous liquid
- Color & Odor: Pale yellow with mild characteristic odor
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol and organic solvents
- Main Components: Ricinoleic acid (~85–90%), oleic acid, linoleic acid
- Viscosity: High
- Specific Gravity: ~0.960 – 0.970
- Acid Value: ≤ 2 mg KOH/g (for food grade)
- Refractive Index: 1.477–1.481
- Iodine Value: 82–88
- Peroxide Value: ≤ 10 meq/kg
- Shelf Life: 24 months under proper storage
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not hazardous under normal use conditions
- Toxicity: Non-toxic; approved for internal use under food-grade conditions
- Allergen Information: Not classified as a major allergen
- Exposure Limits: Not applicable for normal use
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in clean, dry, and cool conditions away from sunlight
- Container Type: Food-grade HDPE drums, IBCs, or stainless steel containers
- Shelf Life: Up to 2 years if stored in sealed, uncontaminated conditions
- Handling Precautions: Use sanitary and food-safe handling procedures
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with FDA regulations for food additives and pharmaceutical use
- Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA
- Conforms to specifications in major pharmacopeias (USP, BP)
- Food-grade certified under relevant food safety and GMP standards
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Low ecological impact under normal use
Bioaccumulation: Not expected
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves recommended for large-volume handling
- Handling Guidelines: Ensure containers are closed and clean to prevent contamination
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Not typically hazardous; move to fresh air if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with water if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water; seek medical attention if discomfort persists
- Ingestion: Safe in regulated quantities; consult physician in case of overdose
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible at high temperatures
- Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, CO₂, foam
- Special Precautions: Use full protective gear if involved in large fire
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide and other hydrocarbons