GUAIAC RESIN
Prepared at the 55th JECFA (2000) and published in FNP 52 Add 8 (2000), superseding tentative specifications prepared at the 17th JECFA (1973) and published in FNP 4 (1978) and in FNP 52 (1992). An ADI of 0-2.5 mg/kg bw was established at the 17th JECFA (1973).
SYNONYMS Guaiac gum, Gum guaiac, Gum guaiacum, Guaiacum; INS No. 314
DEFINITION The resin from the wood of Guajacum officinale L., or of Guajacum sanctumL., (Fam. Zygophyllaceae), consisting of approximately 70% alpha- and beta-guaiaconic acids, 10% guaiaretic acid, and 15% guaiac beta-resin and small quantities of guaiac yellow, vanillin, etc.
DESCRIPTION Irregular lumps enclosing fragments of vegetable tissues; or large, nearly homogeneous masses and occasionally more or less rounded or ovoid tears; externally, it is brownish black to dusky brown, acquiring a greenish colour on long exposure, the fractured surface having a glassy lustre, the thin pieces being transparent and varying in colour from brown to yellowish orange; the powder is moderate yellow brown, becoming olive brown on exposure to air. It has a mild balsamic odour.
FUNCTIONAL USES Antioxidan
