FlavScents AInsights Entry for 1,8-Cineole (CAS: 470-82-6)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): 1,8-Cineole, Eucalyptol
- IUPAC Name: 1,3,3-Trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octane
- CAS Number: 470-82-6
- FEMA Number: 2465
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.060, CoE No. 309
- Molecular Formula: C10H18O
- Molecular Weight: 154.25 g/mol
1,8-Cineole is a monoterpenoid ether characterized by its bicyclic structure, which contributes to its distinctive camphoraceous odor. The presence of an ether functional group is crucial for its volatility and odor profile, making it a significant component in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
1,8-Cineole is renowned for its fresh, camphoraceous, and slightly minty aroma, often described as eucalyptus-like. It exhibits a moderate to high intensity with a sharp, cooling effect. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in formulations, providing a refreshing and clean character. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not universally documented, its potent aroma suggests a low threshold, making it effective even at minimal concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
1,8-Cineole is naturally found in a variety of essential oils, most notably eucalyptus oil, as well as in rosemary, sage, and bay leaves. It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, where it serves as a defense mechanism against herbivores and pathogens. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction method and regulatory definitions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, 1,8-cineole is utilized across various categories, including mint, herbal, and spice flavors. It acts as a functional component to enhance freshness and provide a cooling sensation. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially overpowering other flavor notes. It is generally stable under heat and acidic conditions but may oxidize over time, affecting its sensory properties.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
1,8-Cineole is a versatile ingredient in fragrance formulations, contributing to the top notes of fresh, herbal, and camphoraceous fragrance families. It serves as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the overall freshness of a scent. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity. Its high volatility makes it a prominent top note, providing an initial burst of freshness.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, 1,8-cineole is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. The European Union lists it under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number, indicating its approved use in food. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for its use in food and cosmetics, while in Latin America, Brazil and MERCOSUR countries align with international standards, albeit with some regional variations.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, 1,8-cineole is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI limits, with a wide margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, as noted by IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure, particularly in occupational settings, requires adequate ventilation due to its volatility. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
1,8-Cineole is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, clean character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other minty and herbal notes, enhancing their overall impact. Formulators should be cautious of its potent aroma, which can dominate blends if overused. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where its subtle cooling effect can add depth and dimension.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 1,8-cineole is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are generally consistent, though some undocumented variations in use levels exist. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, with clear guidelines provided by major regulatory bodies.
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 2026-09-01 14:03:18 GMT (p2)