FlavScents AInsights Entry for Alpha-Dihydroterpineol (CAS: 498-81-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Alpha-Dihydroterpineol
• IUPAC Name: 2-(4-Methylcyclohex-3-en-1-yl)propan-2-ol
• CAS Number: 498-81-7
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C10H20O
• Molecular Weight: 156.27 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Alpha-dihydroterpineol is a monoterpenoid alcohol. Its structure contributes to its characteristic odor profile, which is often described as fresh and floral with a hint of citrus. The presence of the hydroxyl group is crucial for its solubility and interaction with other compounds in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Alpha-dihydroterpineol is known for its fresh, floral, and slightly citrusy odor. It is often used to impart a clean and uplifting scent in both flavors and fragrances. The intensity of its odor is moderate, making it suitable as a background note or a modifier in complex formulations. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, it is typically used in concentrations that provide a subtle yet noticeable impact without overwhelming other components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Alpha-dihydroterpineol is not commonly found in nature as a standalone compound but can be derived from the hydrogenation of terpineol, which is present in various essential oils such as pine oil and petitgrain oil. Its formation is often associated with synthetic processes rather than natural biosynthesis, which limits its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" unless derived from natural precursors.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Alpha-dihydroterpineol is utilized in flavor formulations to enhance citrus, floral, and herbal notes. It is commonly found in beverages, confectionery, and baked goods. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering effect. It is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, alpha-dihydroterpineol is valued for its ability to add freshness and complexity to floral and citrus compositions. It is used in a variety of products, including perfumes, soaps, and household cleaners. Concentration ranges typically vary from 0.1% to 1% depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety guidelines.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring regulations.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with local flavor and fragrance regulations is advised.
• Latin America: No specific data; adherence to MERCOSUR and local regulations is recommended.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI established; usage should be guided by general safety assessments and industry practices.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe for use in fragrances; no significant irritation or sensitization reported at typical use levels.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Alpha-dihydroterpineol is prized for its versatility and ability to blend seamlessly with other floral and citrus notes. It synergizes well with other terpenoids and can enhance the freshness of a formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent, and instability in highly acidic or heated environments. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can add depth without dominating the profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on alpha-dihydroterpineol is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on general industry practices and safety assessments. Known data gaps include precise sensory thresholds and comprehensive regional regulatory statuses.

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 2026-08-26 11:37:47 GMT (p2)