Starch (CAS 9005-25-8) — Citrus Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Citrus · Floral

Starch

CAS 9005-25-8

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Starch?

Starch is a carbohydrate polymer widely used as a bulking agent and texture modifier in perfumery. While odorless itself, it helps control the release of fragrance oils. Consumers encounter starch in powdered body products like dry shampoos and talc-free powders. Its role matters because it provides a silky texture while absorbing excess oils, making fragrances last longer on skin without altering their scent profile.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Non-toxic and biodegradable
✓ No known allergens
CAS
9005-25-8
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Citrus · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Starch Smell Like?

Starch itself is odorless, functioning as a neutral carrier in fragrance applications. Its fine, powdery texture provides a matte finish that can soften sharper scent edges when used as a base. In dry formulations, it creates a subtle ‘pillow’ effect that slows volatile top note evaporation while maintaining scent integrity.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Starch consists of amylose and amylopectin polysaccharides, typically derived from corn, potato, or tapioca. In perfumery, modified food-grade starches are preferred for their consistent particle size and flow characteristics. The material undergoes physical processing rather than chemical modification when used as a fragrance carrier, maintaining its natural biocompatibility.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceWhite powder
SolubilityInsoluble in cold water

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Non-volatile
Blending
Neutral carrier
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Powder Products30-70%Up to 90%Primary bulking agent
Encapsulation10-25%5-30%Fragrance oil carrier

Classic Accords

Tip: Use starch with citrus oils to prevent premature evaporation in powder applications.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Silica CAS 7631-86-9

When oil absorption without clumping is required

2
Talc CAS 14807-96-6

For superior slip in body powders (controversial)

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions – exempt as carrier material

RIFM Assessment

RIFM considers starch safe for all cosmetic applications.

Sustainability

Starch is renewable and biodegradable, typically sourced from food industry byproducts. Most cosmetic-grade starch comes from non-GMO crops with minimal processing. Its environmental impact is lower than synthetic alternatives, though sourcing should consider agricultural practices.

Explore Starch

Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.

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References

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Summary for Starch PubChem
  2. EU CosIng Database Entry EC No 232-679-6

Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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Ingredient Data Sheet

CAS 9005-25-8
Data Sources & Attribution
Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.

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