Overview
ISO 8898:2003 specifies quality characteristics and test methods for oil of mandarin petitgrain (Citrus reticulata Blanco) to facilitate consistent assessment, labeling and trade. The standard defines sensory and physicochemical criteria, a normative chromatographic profile by gas chromatography (GC), sampling guidance and references to analytical methods and storage/packaging rules.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope: Applies to essential oil obtained by steam distillation of leaves, twigs and small green fruits of Citrus reticulata Blanco (mandarin petitgrain).
- Appearance & odour: Clear mobile liquid; amber to reddish-orange with violet fluorescence; odour described as flowery, fruity and tenacious.
- Physicochemical limits:
- Relative density at 20 °C: min 0.9340 - max 1.0440 (ISO 279)
- Refractive index at 20 °C: min 1.4980 - max 1.5470 (ISO 280)
- Optical rotation at 20 °C: +2° to +13° (ISO 592)
- Acid value: maximum 2 (ISO 1242)
- Miscibility: 1 volume oil must dissolve to a clear solution in no more than 5 volumes of 85% ethanol at 20 °C (ISO 875)
- Chromatographic profile (normative): GC analysis must identify representative components and their percentage ranges. Typical component ranges include:
- α-Pinene: 2–3%
- β-Pinene: 2–3%
- Limonene: 8–11%
- γ-Terpinene: 22–27%
- p-Cymene: 4–6%
- Methyl N‑methyl anthranilate: 40–55%
- Methyl anthranilate: ≤ 0.2%
The GC profile is mandatory for quality/authenticity assessment (ISO 11024‑1 / ISO 11024‑2).
- Flashpoint (informative): Mean value reported as +54 °C (Annex B; informative).
- Sampling & sample size: See ISO 212; minimum test sample 25 ml.
Applications and users
ISO 8898 is used by:
- Essential oil producers and distillers for product specification and batch release
- QC/analytical laboratories performing identity, purity and authenticity testing
- Flavor, fragrance and perfumery formulators ensuring ingredient conformity
- Importers, distributors and regulators for compliance, labeling and safety data
- Transport, insurance and safety officers referencing flashpoint and handling guidance
Practical uses include establishing supplier contracts, routine QC testing, resolving disputes on oil authenticity, and documenting product specifications for manufacturing and regulatory submissions.
Related standards
Keywords: ISO 8898, mandarin petitgrain essential oil, Citrus reticulata Blanco, chromatographic profile, gas chromatography, essential oil quality, refractive index, relative density, acid value, flashpoint.