Anethum graveolens L.: Dill seed extract

What it is. Extract obtained from the seeds of Anethum graveolens L. (dill), a flavouring substance of plant origin (CAS 8006-75-5). It is composed of a characteristic mixture of volatile and non-volatile constituents typical of dill seed, including carvone and trace phenolic compounds.

What it is for. It is used as a sensory feed additive (functional group 2b, flavouring compounds) to impart aroma and flavour to feed. As with other flavouring substances, it is generally used across animal species to support feed palatability and acceptance, without a specific nutritional function.

Points to watch. As a group 2b flavouring substance, its use is linked to flavouring purposes only, not to nutritional or technological claims. A related study on a dill fruit tincture reported trace levels of estragole, between the detection and quantification limits, and concluded safety at a proposed maximum use level of 200 mg/kg feed; this figure illustrates one assessed use and does not set a general inclusion level for this seed extract. Batch-to-batch variability in composition should be taken into account.