FlavScents AInsights Entry for Isofreshal (CAS: 68259-31-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Isofreshal is a synthetic fragrance compound known for its fresh and clean scent profile. The IUPAC name for isofreshal is 3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-2-methylpropanal. It is identified by the CAS number 68259-31-4. While it does not have a FEMA number, it is recognized in various fragrance databases. The molecular formula for isofreshal is C14H20O, and it has a molecular weight of 204.31 g/mol. Isofreshal contains an aldehyde functional group, which is significant for its odor characteristics, contributing to its fresh and aldehydic scent profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Isofreshal is characterized by its fresh, aldehydic, and slightly floral scent. It is often described as having a clean and crisp aroma, reminiscent of freshly laundered linen or a cool breeze. The intensity of isofreshal is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or a modifier in fragrance compositions. Its diffusion is good, allowing it to blend well with other fragrance components. While specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, isofreshal is typically used in concentrations that provide a noticeable yet subtle freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Isofreshal is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally. It is produced through chemical synthesis, often involving the reaction of appropriate precursors to form the desired aldehyde structure. As a synthetic material, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, which are typically reserved for compounds derived from natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Isofreshal is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primary role as a fragrance ingredient. However, when used, it can impart a fresh and clean note to certain flavor profiles, particularly in mint or herbal flavors. Typical use levels in flavors are not well-documented, but industry estimates suggest low ppm levels to avoid overpowering the flavor profile. Isofreshal is stable under typical flavor formulation conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, isofreshal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, clean scent. It is commonly used in fragrance families such as fresh, floral, and aldehydic compositions. Isofreshal serves as a modifier or impact note, enhancing the overall freshness of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in fragrances vary, but it is often used at levels that provide a noticeable freshness without dominating the scent profile. Isofreshal contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, isofreshal is not specifically listed as a FEMA GRAS substance for flavor use, reflecting its primary use in fragrances. In the European Union, it is subject to the general safety requirements for fragrance ingredients under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008. The UK follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, isofreshal is used in fragrances with adherence to local safety standards. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR also regulate isofreshal under general fragrance safety guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Isofreshal's safety profile is primarily evaluated in the context of dermal exposure due to its use in fragrances. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization at typical use levels. Inhalation exposure is also considered safe under normal use conditions, although occupational exposure should be managed to minimize inhalation of concentrated vapors. Oral exposure is not a primary concern due to its limited use in flavors.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Isofreshal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh and clean scent, making it a versatile component in fragrance formulations. It blends well with floral, citrus, and green notes, enhancing the overall freshness of a composition. Formulators should be mindful of its moderate intensity to avoid overpowering other fragrance components. Isofreshal is often under-used in complex compositions where its fresh note can provide a subtle lift.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on isofreshal is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, specific use levels in flavors and detailed toxicological data are less documented, reflecting its primary use in fragrances. Industry practices provide guidance on typical use levels and safety considerations.

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 2026-03-16 02:13:50 GMT (p2)