ISO 855:2003

Overview

ISO 855:2003 defines quality characteristics and test methods for oil of lemon [Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f.] obtained by expression. Published by ISO/TC 54 (Essential oils), the standard provides physicochemical limits, a normative chromatographic profile and references to analytical methods to facilitate consistent quality assessment, labeling and trade of lemon essential oil.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and types: Covers expressed lemon oil from different growing regions (American, Mediterranean, Equatorial - e.g., Spain, Italy, Brazil, Ivory Coast) and recognizes regional variability.
• Physicochemical parameters (typical test limits at 20 °C):
  • Relative density: ~0.845–0.858 depending on type.
  • Refractive index: approximately 1.473–1.479 (at 20 °C).
  • Optical rotation: positive values typically between +57° and +78°.
  • Residue on evaporation: generally ~1.5–4.0%.
  • Acid value: max. 2.
  • Carbonyl value and CD value: specified ranges to detect oxidation/aging and characteristic UV activity.
• Chromatographic profile (normative):
  • Analysis by gas chromatography identifying characteristic components and percentage ranges.
  • Limonene is the dominant constituent (overall ranges across types typically ~59–80%), with other significant components such as γ-terpinene, β-pinene, myrcene, α-terpineol, neral and geranial (citral components).
• Analytical references: Standard cross-references ISO methods for density (ISO 279), refractive index (ISO 280), optical rotation (ISO 592), acid value (ISO 1242), carbonyl value (ISO 1271), CD/UV (ISO 4735), residue on evaporation (ISO 4715) and chromatographic profiling (ISO 11024-1/2).
• Flashpoint: Informative mean value given (+46 °C) - used for safety/transport guidance (see Annex B and ISO/TR 11018).
• Packaging, labelling and sampling: Requirements and guidance refer to ISO/TR 210, ISO/TR 211 and ISO 212.

Applications and who uses it

• Essential oil producers and citrus processors: to set product specifications and verify expressed lemon oil quality.
• Quality control and analytical laboratories: for standardized testing and compliance verification using gas chromatography and referenced ISO methods.
• Flavor & fragrance, cosmetic and food manufacturers: to select compliant raw materials and document ingredient quality.
• Buyers, traders and regulatory authorities: for procurement specifications, conformity assessment and safety labeling.
• Transport/insurance/safety teams: use flashpoint and packaging guidance for handling and shipment.

Related standards

• ISO 11024-1/-2 (chromatographic profiles), ISO 279, ISO 280, ISO 592, ISO 1242, ISO 1271, ISO 4715, ISO 4735, ISO/TR 210, ISO/TR 211, ISO 212. These are referenced within ISO 855:2003 for test procedures and ancillary requirements.

Keywords: ISO 855:2003, oil of lemon, Citrus limon, essential oil, gas chromatography, limonene, refractive index, relative density, acid value, chromatographic profile, quality assessment.