Orange sweet oil is obtained from the peel of *Citrus sinensis*, commonly known as the sweet orange. The oil is primarily extracted through cold pressing of the outer peel, a method that preserves its volatile components. The chemical composition of orange sweet oil consists mainly of limonene, which makes up the majority of its content, along with lesser amounts of myrcene, α-pinene, and linalool. The composition varies depending on factors such as the variety of the orange, geographical location, and extraction conditions.
The use of orange sweet oil has been well documented in the flavor and fragrance industries. Due to its pleasant citrus aroma, it is widely used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages, including confectionery, baked goods, and carbonated drinks. It has been incorporated into formulations where a natural citrus note is required. Regulatory standards define the acceptable limits for its use in edible products, ensuring consistency in commercial applications.
In the fragrance industry, orange sweet oil is used in perfumery, household cleaning products, and air fresheners. Its high limonene content contributes to its role as a fragrance enhancer in soaps, detergents, and personal care items. The oil blends well with other citrus and floral essential oils, making it a common ingredient in fragrance compositions. The stability of the oil under controlled storage conditions ensures its suitability for long-term use in formulated products.
Industrial applications of orange sweet oil include its use as a natural solvent due to its limonene content. It is used in cleaning formulations, degreasers, and adhesive removers. The ability of limonene to dissolve oils and certain synthetic residues has led to its incorporation in environmentally friendly cleaning products. The oil’s application in the polymer and coating industries is also based on its solvent properties, making it an alternative to petroleum-based solvents in specific formulations.
Standardized methods for the extraction, processing, and quality control of orange sweet oil ensure its suitability for commercial applications. Its production follows established guidelines to maintain consistency in composition, aroma, and stability. The global demand for orange sweet oil continues across multiple industries due to its well-documented functional properties and versatility in formulated products.
References
2010. Selective extraction of natural products with benign solvents and recovery by organophilic pervaporation: fractionation of d-limonene from orange peels. Green Chem., 12(11). DOI: 10.1039/c0gc00339e
2008. Stereoselective oxidation of R-(+)-limonene by chloroperoxidase from Caldariomyces fumago. Green Chem., 10(6). DOI: 10.1039/b719992a
2008. High-resolution mass spectrometric analysis of secondary organic aerosol produced by ozonation of limonene. Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 10(7). DOI: 10.1039/b712620d
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