FlavScents AInsights Entry: Dimethyl Sulfoxide (CAS: 67-68-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Dimethyl sulfoxide, DMSO
• IUPAC Name: Dimethyl sulfoxide
• CAS Number: 67-68-5
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: PubChem CID: 679
• Molecular Formula: C2H6OS
• Molecular Weight: 78.13 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Dimethyl sulfoxide is characterized by a sulfoxide functional group, which contributes to its high polarity and ability to dissolve both polar and nonpolar compounds. While DMSO itself is not typically used for its odor, it can influence the solubility and stability of other aromatic compounds in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Dimethyl sulfoxide is not primarily used for its sensory properties in flavor and fragrance applications. It is generally odorless or has a very faint garlic-like smell at high concentrations. Its primary role in sensory applications is as a solvent rather than a direct contributor to odor or flavor profiles. The taste and odor thresholds for DMSO are not well-documented, as it is not typically used for these properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Dimethyl sulfoxide is not naturally occurring in significant amounts in nature. It is primarily synthesized through the oxidation of dimethyl sulfide, a process that can occur industrially. DMSO is not typically associated with "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations due to its synthetic origin.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Dimethyl sulfoxide is not commonly used as a flavoring agent due to its lack of distinctive flavor properties. However, it can be used as a solvent in flavor formulations, aiding in the dissolution and stability of other flavor compounds. Typical use levels in food and beverage applications are not well-documented, as its use is more functional than sensory. Stability considerations include its high boiling point and resistance to oxidation, making it a stable solvent under various conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, dimethyl sulfoxide serves as a solvent rather than a fragrance component. It is valued for its ability to dissolve a wide range of aromatic compounds, enhancing the formulation of complex fragrance profiles. DMSO does not contribute directly to fragrance families or product types but supports the stability and delivery of other fragrance ingredients. Its volatility is low, and it does not contribute to the top, middle, or base notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: DMSO is not listed as a FEMA GRAS substance for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is not restricted by the FDA.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is not restricted.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit, with no specific restrictions on DMSO in flavors or fragrances.
• Asia: Regulatory status varies; not commonly used in flavors or fragrances.
• Latin America: Similar to the US and EU, with no specific restrictions noted.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: DMSO is not typically used in flavors, so oral exposure is minimal. No ADI or MSDI is established.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe for dermal exposure in fragrance applications, with low irritation and sensitization potential. Not listed by IFRA as a restricted substance.
• Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk. Occupational exposure limits are generally not exceeded in typical use scenarios.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Dimethyl sulfoxide is valued for its solvent properties, enhancing the solubility and stability of other compounds in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It is often used to dissolve polar and nonpolar substances, providing versatility in formulation. Common pitfalls include over-reliance on DMSO for solubility, which can lead to unwanted interactions with other ingredients. It is frequently under-used in applications where its solvent properties could enhance formulation stability.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on dimethyl sulfoxide is well-established regarding its chemical properties and solvent capabilities. However, its use in flavor and fragrance applications is less documented, with industry practices often guiding its application. Regulatory ambiguities exist due to its primary role as a solvent rather than a direct flavor or fragrance component.

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 (not applicable for DMSO)
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable for DMSO)

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 2026-02-26 09:03:48 GMT (p2)