Overview
ISO/TR 21092:2004 - "Essential oils - Characterization" is an informative Technical Report published by ISO/TC 54 (Essential oils). The report provides a consolidated list of identification codes used to characterize essential oils, recognizing that a single identifier (for example, a CAS number) is often insufficient. ISO/TR 21092:2004 compiles multiple reference numbers (CAS‑USA, EINECS, CAS‑EINECS, FEMA, EC and FDA) in a tabular format to improve clarity, traceability and unambiguous identification of essential oil materials. Botanical names cited in the report follow ISO 4720 (Essential oils - Nomenclature).
Key topics
- Multiple identification codes: Includes CAS‑USA, EINECS, CAS‑EINECS, FEMA, EC and FDA numbers for a wide range of essential oils.
- Tabular characterization: Central table (Table 1) lists oils with corresponding codes to support cross‑referencing.
- Nomenclature linkage: Botanical names are standardized per ISO 4720 to avoid taxonomic ambiguity.
- Informative scope: As a Technical Report, the document is descriptive - it compiles existing identifiers rather than prescribing analytical methods or specifications.
Practical applications
ISO/TR 21092:2004 is useful wherever clear, standardized identification of essential oils is required:
- Regulatory compliance & submissions: Facilitates accurate ingredient identification in dossiers and communications with authorities (e.g., matching EC/FDA references).
- Quality control & traceability: Helps QC labs and procurement teams reconcile supplier documentation, inventory systems and certificates of analysis.
- Product labeling & safety data sheets (SDS): Supports consistent use of identifiers across labels, SDSs and material declarations to reduce misidentification.
- Formulation, flavor and fragrance industry: Perfumers, flavourists and manufacturers use the cross‑reference table to verify raw material identity and origin.
- Trade and import/export: Assists customs, traders and importers in matching regulatory numbers for international shipments.
Who should use it
- Essential oil producers and processors
- Flavor & fragrance manufacturers
- Quality assurance and regulatory affairs professionals
- Analytical and testing laboratories
- Importers, exporters and distributors
- Safety officers preparing SDS and labeling
Related standards
- ISO 4720 - Essential oils - Nomenclature (referenced in ISO/TR 21092 for botanical names)
- ISO/TR 21092 is a Technical Report (informative) produced by ISO/TC 54.
ISO/TR 21092:2004 is a practical reference for anyone needing authoritative cross‑references between CAS, EINECS, FEMA, EC and FDA identifiers when working with essential oils, improving consistency in documentation, labeling and regulatory interactions.
