FlavScents AInsights Entry for Beta-Caryophyllene Oxide
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Beta-caryophyllene oxide
- IUPAC Name: (1R,4S,6R,10S)-4,11,11-trimethyl-8-methylidenebicyclo[7.2.0]undec-8-ene-4,6-diol
- CAS Number: 1139-30-6
- FEMA Number: 3446
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.062
- Molecular Formula: C15H24O
- Molecular Weight: 220.35 g/mol
- Functional Groups and Structure-Odor Relevance: Beta-caryophyllene oxide is a bicyclic sesquiterpene oxide. The presence of the epoxide group is significant for its interaction with olfactory receptors, contributing to its distinctive odor profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Beta-caryophyllene oxide is characterized by a woody, spicy, and slightly sweet aroma. It is often described as having a warm, balsamic undertone with a hint of clove-like spiciness. The compound's odor intensity is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. The taste threshold is not well-documented, but its olfactory impact is significant in creating depth and complexity in both flavors and fragrances.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Beta-caryophyllene oxide is naturally found in various essential oils, including clove, rosemary, and hops. It is formed through the oxidation of beta-caryophyllene, a common sesquiterpene found in many plant species. This oxidation can occur naturally in plants or during the processing of essential oils. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Beta-caryophyllene oxide is used in flavor formulations to impart a woody and spicy character. It is commonly utilized in savory applications, such as sauces and seasonings, as well as in some sweet applications like baked goods. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the complexity of the flavor profile. It is relatively stable under heat and acidic conditions, making it versatile for various culinary applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In perfumery, beta-caryophyllene oxide is valued for its ability to enhance woody and spicy notes. It is frequently used in oriental and woody fragrance families, contributing to the middle and base notes of compositions. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired olfactory impact. Its moderate volatility allows it to blend well with other fragrance components, providing a lasting scent profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
- European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 02.062.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
- Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized assumptions.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Beta-caryophyllene oxide is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical use levels. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by its GRAS status, with no specific ADI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally well-tolerated, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Beta-caryophyllene oxide is prized for its ability to enhance and modify woody and spicy notes in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other sesquiterpenes and can be used to add depth to complex formulations. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate if used excessively, and it is often under-utilized in lighter fragrance compositions where its subtlety can be an asset.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on beta-caryophyllene oxide is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While specific numeric thresholds for taste are not well-documented, industry practices provide reliable guidance for its use. Some regional regulatory nuances exist, but they are generally harmonized across major markets.
Citation hooks: FlavScents
QA Check
- All required sections 1-9 are present
- "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
- Flavor section includes ppm ranges
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)
About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.
Generated 2026-08-25 10:01:56 GMT (p2)