FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2,6-Dihydroxy-4-Methoxyacetophenone (CAS: 7507-89-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): 2,6-Dihydroxy-4-methoxyacetophenone
- IUPAC Name: 1-(2,6-dihydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)ethanone
- CAS Number: 7507-89-3
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C9H10O4
- Molecular Weight: 182.17 g/mol
2,6-Dihydroxy-4-methoxyacetophenone is characterized by its phenolic structure, which contributes to its odor profile. The presence of methoxy and hydroxy groups influences its solubility and reactivity, making it relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
2,6-Dihydroxy-4-methoxyacetophenone is noted for its sweet, vanilla-like odor with a hint of floral undertones. Its intensity is moderate, making it suitable as a background note in complex formulations. The compound's diffusion is relatively stable, providing a consistent sensory experience over time. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, it is typically used to impart a subtle sweetness and warmth.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
This compound is not widely reported in natural sources but can be synthesized through chemical pathways involving the acetylation of methoxyphenols. It is not typically associated with "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations due to its synthetic origins. However, its structural similarity to naturally occurring phenolic compounds allows it to mimic certain natural aromas.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
2,6-Dihydroxy-4-methoxyacetophenone is used in flavor formulations primarily within the vanilla and sweet flavor categories. It acts as a modifier, enhancing the depth and complexity of vanilla notes. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering sweetness. The compound is stable under typical food processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, 2,6-dihydroxy-4-methoxyacetophenone is utilized in oriental and gourmand fragrance families. It serves as a middle note, providing warmth and sweetness. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility is moderate, contributing to its role as a middle note.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed under FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; assumed safe under general flavoring regulations.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Limited specific data; generally follows international safety guidelines.
- Latin America: No specific regulations identified; assumed to follow international norms.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI established; general safety assumed at low ppm levels in food.
- Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance use.
- Inhalation Exposure: Moderate volatility suggests low risk in typical fragrance applications; occupational exposure should be monitored.
Overall, the risk profile does not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications, assuming adherence to recommended usage levels.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
2,6-Dihydroxy-4-methoxyacetophenone is valued for its ability to enhance vanilla and sweet profiles without overwhelming other components. It synergizes well with other phenolic compounds and vanilla derivatives. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to an artificial sweetness. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where subtlety is required.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
Data on 2,6-dihydroxy-4-methoxyacetophenone is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry norms and general safety guidelines.
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 2026-09-09 05:17:04 GMT (p2)