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Grapefruit seed extract

Grapefruit seed extract suppliers and sourcing guide

Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) is made from the seeds, and often the pulp and white membrane, of grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) left over from juice processing. The material is ground, extracted and usually processed in vegetable glycerin, then sold as a viscous liquid concentrate or dried onto a carrier as a powder. It is used mainly in cosmetics and as a processing aid, and composition varies a great deal between producers.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
GSE · Citrus paradisi seed extract · grapefruit seed and pulp extract
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of grapefruit seed extract

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Glycerin liquid concentrate

    Seed and pulp extract in vegetable glycerin, the most common commercial form; the glycerin share sets how concentrated it is.

  • Powder on carrier

    Extract dried onto a carrier such as maltodextrin or silica for capsules and powder blends; the carrier lowers the extract content per gram.

  • Cosmetic grade

    Liquid grade sold for personal care with an INCI name such as Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Seed Extract and glycerin.

  • Organic

    Extract from certified organic fruit, with the organic certificate tied to the lot; check that the processing chemicals fit the organic standard.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Identity and composition
HPLC profile of citrus flavonoids (naringin and related compounds) to confirm grapefruit origin, with a full statement of what the product contains.
Synthetic preservative screen (HPLC or LC-MS)
Testing for quaternary ammonium compounds such as benzethonium and benzalkonium chloride, and for parabens and triclosan, which have been found in commercial GSE. Buyers ask for this on every lot.
Solids and glycerin content
Dry matter and glycerin percentage for liquid grades, so lots can be compared on actual extract content.
Heavy metals
Lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury by ICP-MS, checked against the buyer's limits and any Prop 65 exposure targets.
Microbiology
Total plate count, yeast and mold, E. coli or coliforms, and Salmonella.
Physical tests
Appearance, pH, viscosity and specific gravity for liquids; loss on drying and carrier for powders.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Keep liquid GSE tightly closed in its original container at controlled room temperature, away from light and heat; it is viscous and should be mixed before sampling if it settles. Keep powder grades sealed and dry. Shelf life or a retest date comes from the supplier's specification.

Lots and expiry dates

Composition differs between producers and can change between lots, so keep each lot's preservative screen and composition statement on file. Record the supplier lot, glycerin content and any carrier, and rotate stock first-expiry-first-out.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

  • 21 CFR 182.20 lists grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.) among essential oils, oleoresins (solvent-free) and natural extractives generally recognized as safe for their intended use; the listing names the plant and does not mention seed extracts.

    Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)

  • FDA's Substances Added to Food inventory lists "Grapefruit, extract" (Citrus paradisi extract) and cites 21 CFR 182.20; the entry does not state a plant part.

    Source: hfpappexternal.fda.gov (opens in a new tab)

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Grapefruit seed extract suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking grapefruit seed extract suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

Sell grapefruit seed extract? Request a listing

Frequently asked questions

What forms of grapefruit seed extract can brands buy?

Common forms include glycerin liquid concentrate, powder on carrier, cosmetic grade and organic. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for grapefruit seed extract include?

Expect identity and composition, synthetic preservative screen (HPLC or LC-MS), solids and glycerin content, heavy metals, microbiology and physical tests, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should grapefruit seed extract be stored?

Keep liquid GSE tightly closed in its original container at controlled room temperature, away from light and heat; it is viscous and should be mixed before sampling if it settles. Keep powder grades sealed and dry. Shelf life or a retest date comes from the supplier's specification.

What is the regulatory status of grapefruit seed extract?

21 CFR 182.20 lists grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.) among essential oils, oleoresins (solvent-free) and natural extractives generally recognized as safe for their intended use; the listing names the plant and does not mention seed extracts. FDA's Substances Added to Food inventory lists "Grapefruit, extract" (Citrus paradisi extract) and cites 21 CFR 182.20; the entry does not state a plant part.

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