Buy Food Grade Essential Oils | Where Can I
Even if an oil is "food grade," it should never be ingested "neat" (undiluted). Always drop them into a carrier—like honey, olive oil, or a large batch of batter—to prevent irritation to the mucous membranes of the mouth and digestive tract. To help you find the right source, let me know: What specific flavorsg., peppermint, lemon, lavender)?
When shopping, ignore marketing terms like "100% Pure" or "Therapeutic Grade," as these are not regulated. Instead, look for:
Local natural food stores (like Whole Foods or independent co-ops) carry brands such as Aura Cacia or NOW Foods . However, you must be careful here: not every bottle from these brands is food-grade. You must check the individual label for a "Supplement Facts" box. where can i buy food grade essential oils
For those using oils in large-scale production, wholesalers like Mountain Rose Herbs or Plant Therapy offer organic options. They provide detailed documentation regarding the extraction method (e.g., steam distilled vs. cold-pressed) and purity levels. What to Look For (The Safety Checklist)
The most reliable source is often a company that specializes in baking and confectionery supplies. Brands like LorAnn Oils are industry standards; they produce "SS" (super strength) flavors and oils specifically designed for candy making, chocolates, and baking. These are clearly labeled for internal use and are often found in craft stores like Michaels or specialized baking shops. Even if an oil is "food grade," it
Since oils are concentrated, any pesticides on the original plant are also concentrated. Organic-certified oils are safer for ingestion. A Note on Safety
Ensure the botanical name (e.g., Lavandula angustifolia ) is listed so you know exactly what plant species you are consuming. When shopping, ignore marketing terms like "100% Pure"
Finding high-quality, food-grade essential oils requires moving beyond the "aromatherapy" aisle and looking for specific safety indicators. Since essential oils are highly concentrated, "food grade" usually refers to oils that are Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for human consumption. Where to Buy Food-Grade Essential Oils