FlavScents AInsights Entry for alpha,alpha-dimethyl benzyl alcohol (CAS: 617-94-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): alpha,alpha-dimethyl benzyl alcohol
• IUPAC Name: 2-phenyl-2-propanol
• CAS Number: 617-94-7
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C9H12O
• Molecular Weight: 136.19 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: This compound features a phenyl group attached to a tertiary alcohol, which contributes to its characteristic odor profile. The presence of the phenyl group is significant in imparting a floral and slightly sweet aroma, often used in fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

• Odor and Flavor Descriptors: alpha,alpha-dimethyl benzyl alcohol is known for its floral, sweet, and slightly balsamic odor. It is often described as having a mild intensity with moderate diffusion.
• Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific thresholds are not clearly reported in the literature.
• Typical Sensory Role: It serves as a modifier in fragrance compositions, adding depth and complexity to floral accords.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

• Known Natural Sources: This compound is not typically found in nature and is primarily synthesized for use in fragrances and flavors.
• Formation Pathways: It is commonly produced through chemical synthesis, involving the reaction of acetophenone with methylmagnesium bromide followed by hydrolysis.
• Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: Due to its synthetic origin, it does not qualify for natural flavor or fragrance designation.

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

4. Use in Flavors

• Flavor Categories and Applications: alpha,alpha-dimethyl benzyl alcohol is used in a limited capacity in flavor applications, primarily in floral and sweet profiles.
• Functional Role in Flavor Systems: It acts as a background note, enhancing the overall complexity of the flavor profile.
• Typical Use Levels: Documented use levels in flavors are not readily available; however, industry-typical estimates suggest usage in the range of 1-10 ppm in finished products.
• Stability Considerations: It is relatively stable under normal conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

• Fragrance Families and Product Types: Commonly used in floral, oriental, and woody fragrance families. It is found in perfumes, lotions, and other personal care products.
• Functional Role: Serves as a modifier and impact note, providing a sweet, floral character.
• Typical Concentration Ranges: Typically used at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1% in fragrance formulations.
• Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: It contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance composition due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA.
• European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number status): Not specifically listed under EU flavoring regulations.
• United Kingdom (post-Brexit alignment or divergence): Follows EU regulations; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Regulatory status not clearly documented; typically follows international standards.
• Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): No specific regulatory information available; generally aligns with international practices.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI values; generally considered safe at low concentrations typical in flavor applications.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; generally regarded as safe in fragrance use within typical concentration ranges.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational exposure limits not specifically documented.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

• Why This Material is Valuable: Its ability to impart a sweet, floral note makes it a versatile component in both fragrance and flavor formulations.
• Typical Synergies: Pairs well with other floral and sweet notes, enhancing the overall bouquet.
• Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering sweetness; balance with other notes is crucial.
• Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-used: Often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can be overshadowed by more dominant notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

• Well-Established Data: Basic chemical and sensory properties are well-documented.
• Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Usage levels and regulatory status often inferred from similar compounds.
• Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are limited.

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 2026-10-04 21:03:29 GMT (p2)