Black catechu extract

Black catechu extract (CAS 8001-76-1), also known as catechu resin and cachou extract, is a natural plant-derived extract obtained from the heartwood of Acacia catechu. In industry, it functions as a natural colorant, tanning agent, and antioxidant.

This versatile material is utilized across food, textile, and leather applications. In textile dyeing, it produces fast brown and khaki shades on cotton and wool, particularly valued in traditional and natural fiber processing.

Leather tanners use it as a vegetable tanning agent to produce firm, durable hides with characteristic color and texture. It is especially effective where synthetic dyes are restricted or where natural finishes are required.

In food and beverage applications under FEMA 2264, it is used as a flavoring and natural colorant in confectionery, chewing products, and certain beverages. It meets rigorous safety standards for human consumption.

Paper manufacturers apply it as a surface treatment agent to impart color and improve resistance properties in specialty paper grades. This application highlights the extract's utility beyond traditional dyeing and tanning.

The product is supplied as a dark brown powder or solid block form, with liquid extract concentrates available for certain industrial applications. Food-grade and technical-grade specifications are the most commonly traded.

Buyers select the appropriate grade based on end-use regulatory requirements. Moisture content and catechin concentration are standard quality parameters referenced in commercial specifications to ensure consistency and performance.