Traceability, authentication, and quality control of food-grade lavender essential oil: A comprehensive review

The global lavender essential oil (LaEO) market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3 %-6.8 % from 2024 to 2033. Valued at USD 138.2 million in 2024, the market is expected to reach USD 267.2 million by 2034. This growth is primarily driven by rising consumer demand for organic products, which has heightened interest in high-quality, non-toxic essential oils (EOs). Consequently, Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)-classified EOs are gaining attention as potential natural alternatives to synthetic food additives. However, due to its widespread use, LaEO is particularly susceptible to adulteration, often with Lavandin intermedia EO. To address this issue, mass spectrometry, and chemometric techniques have emerged as effective tools for authenticating LaEO and determining its origin. This review, therefore, investigates various quality indices, authentication techniques, and methods employed for LaEO traceability, with a specific focus on non-destructive approaches. Furthermore, LaEO's unique flavors and health benefits as food additives underscore the importance of maintaining stringent quality standards to ensure both product integrity and consumer health. Notably, NMR-based chemometric analysis, combined with GC/MS, is highlighted as an effective approach to detect adulteration, shaping the future role of LaEO in the food industry. Ultimately, ensuring the stringent quality of LaEO remains critical to its continued success in the market.