FlavScents AInsights Entry for Geranyl Acetone (CAS: 689-67-8)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Geranyl Acetone
- IUPAC Name: 6,10-dimethylundeca-5,9-dien-2-one
- CAS Number: 689-67-8
- FEMA Number: 3540
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.084
- Molecular Formula: C13H22O
- Molecular Weight: 194.32 g/mol
Geranyl acetone is a monoterpenoid compound characterized by its unsaturated ketone functional group. The presence of the conjugated double bonds contributes to its distinctive odor profile, which is relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Geranyl acetone is known for its fresh, floral, and fruity aroma with a hint of green and citrus notes. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and is used to impart a natural freshness in formulations. The compound serves as an impact note in both flavor and fragrance systems, providing a realistic and vibrant character.
Taste and odor thresholds for geranyl acetone are not widely documented, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent sensory attributes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Geranyl acetone occurs naturally in various essential oils, including ginger, citronella, and lemongrass. It can also be formed through the degradation of carotenoids and terpenes, which are common in many plant species. This compound is often used in products labeled as "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its occurrence in nature.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Geranyl acetone is utilized in a variety of flavor categories, including citrus, floral, and fruity profiles. It acts as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the overall complexity and authenticity of flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the specific application and desired intensity.
The compound 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, geranyl acetone is incorporated into floral, citrus, and green fragrance families. It serves as a middle note, providing a fresh and vibrant character that enhances the overall scent profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are between 0.1% and 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type.
Geranyl acetone is moderately volatile, contributing to the fragrance's longevity and diffusion.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
- European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 02.084.
- United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in ASEAN countries.
- Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with some regional variations.
Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, but formulators should verify specific country regulations due to potential variability.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Geranyl acetone is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications when used within recommended levels.
- Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI values are available, but it is generally recognized as safe under FEMA GRAS.
- Dermal Exposure: Low potential for irritation or sensitization, with no specific IFRA restrictions.
- Inhalation Exposure: Moderate volatility suggests minimal occupational risk under normal use conditions.
Risk profiles are similar across food and fragrance applications, with no significant differences noted.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Geranyl acetone is valued for its ability to impart freshness and complexity to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and citrus notes, enhancing the overall profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial character. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a natural and vibrant aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on geranyl acetone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps include specific taste and odor thresholds.
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
- No complex natural material section required for this single compound
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 2026-08-25 22:43:12 GMT (p2)