Quillaja extract
Quillaja extract is a water extract of the bark and wood of the soapbark tree (Quillaja saponaria), grown mainly in Chile. The extract contains triterpene saponins that foam and emulsify in water. It is sold as a less refined type 1 extract or a purified, higher-saponin type 2 extract, as a liquid or a spray-dried powder, and used to foam beverages and to emulsify flavor oils and colors in drinks.
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
Whole aqueous extract with saponins plus polyphenols, tannins and sugars; darker in color, used mainly as a foaming agent.
Extract treated to raise saponin content and remove color and tannins, used to emulsify oils in clear and cloudy beverages.
Aqueous solution at a stated solids content, sometimes with a preservative such as sodium benzoate.
Dried extract, sometimes on a carrier such as maltodextrin, for dry mixes.
Extracts from certified organic bark offered by some suppliers.
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
Keep liquid quillaja extract tightly closed in its original container at cool room temperature or as the supplier states, away from light; once opened, use it within the supplier's stated period. Powders should be kept sealed and dry because they absorb moisture. Shelf life comes from the supplier's specification, with retest of saponin content and microbiology for older stock.
Saponin content and color can vary with bark source and processing, so record the type, saponin value and solids for each lot. Note any preservative or carrier, since it must appear on your label, and rotate liquids first-expired, first-out.
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
21 CFR 172.510 lists quillaia (soapbark), Quillaja saponaria, among the natural flavoring substances and natural adjuvants that may be used in food.
Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)GRN 903 (quillaia extract type 2, notified by Naturex SA) closed on April 21, 2021 with FDA having no questions, for use as an emulsifier in listed food categories.
Source: hfpappexternal.fda.gov (opens in a new tab)Health Canada's List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents includes quillaia extract (type 2).
Source: canada.ca (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.
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
Manufacturer · Chula Vista, CA
Sells it as Andean
Producer of quillaja and yucca saponin extracts and cold-pressed jojoba oil, with operations in the US, Chile and Mexico, selling to food and beverage, personal care, animal nutrition and pharmaceutical customers.
Suppliers are in alphabetical order and none pays to appear. Each claim is checked against the supplier’s own website on the date shown. Ask for the specification sheet and a recent COA before you order, and confirm details with the supplier.
Common forms include type 1 (non-purified), type 2 (purified), liquid extract, spray-dried powder and organic. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
Expect saponin content, solids and pH, color and turbidity, tannins or polyphenols, heavy metals and microbiology, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
Keep liquid quillaja extract tightly closed in its original container at cool room temperature or as the supplier states, away from light; once opened, use it within the supplier's stated period. Powders should be kept sealed and dry because they absorb moisture. Shelf life comes from the supplier's specification, with retest of saponin content and microbiology for older stock.
21 CFR 172.510 lists quillaia (soapbark), Quillaja saponaria, among the natural flavoring substances and natural adjuvants that may be used in food. GRN 903 (quillaia extract type 2, notified by Naturex SA) closed on April 21, 2021 with FDA having no questions, for use as an emulsifier in listed food categories. Health Canada's List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents includes quillaia extract (type 2).
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