FlavScents AInsights Entry: Cyclamen Aldehyde (CAS: 103-95-7)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Cyclamen aldehyde, also known as 2-(3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)propyl)pentanal, is a synthetic fragrance compound widely used in the flavor and fragrance industry. Its CAS number is 103-95-7, and it is recognized by FEMA with the number 3354. The molecular formula for cyclamen aldehyde is C16H24O, and it has a molecular weight of 232.36 g/mol. This compound features an aldehyde functional group, which is crucial for its characteristic floral and green odor profile. The presence of the tert-butyl group contributes to its stability and intensity, making it a valuable ingredient in various formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Cyclamen aldehyde is renowned for its fresh, floral, and green scent, reminiscent of cyclamen flowers. It is often described as having a clean, slightly sweet, and powdery aroma with a hint of citrus. The compound is used as an impact note in both fragrance and flavor applications, providing a fresh and uplifting character. While specific odor thresholds are not widely documented, cyclamen aldehyde is known for its moderate to strong diffusion, making it effective even at low concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Cyclamen aldehyde does not occur naturally and is synthesized for use in the fragrance and flavor industry. Its synthesis typically involves the reaction of 4-tert-butylbenzaldehyde with propanal in the presence of a catalyst. As a synthetic compound, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks, which require components to be derived from natural sources.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, cyclamen aldehyde is used to impart a fresh, floral note to a variety of products, including beverages, confectionery, and dairy products. It serves as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. Cyclamen aldehyde is stable under typical processing conditions, although it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Cyclamen aldehyde is a versatile ingredient in the fragrance industry, commonly used in floral, green, and fresh fragrance families. It acts as a top to middle note, providing a fresh and clean character to perfumes, soaps, and household products. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the product type and desired effect. Its moderate volatility ensures a lasting presence without overwhelming other components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, cyclamen aldehyde is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, cyclamen aldehyde is permitted for use in flavors and fragrances, although specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR generally align with international standards, but local regulations should be consulted.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Cyclamen aldehyde is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances when used within recommended limits. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, although it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk due to its moderate volatility and low concentration in air. Overall, 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
Cyclamen aldehyde is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and green notes, enhancing the overall complexity of formulations. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate blends if used excessively, and it is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle floral hint. Its stability and versatility make it a reliable choice for a wide range of applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on cyclamen aldehyde is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, although some specific sensory thresholds and regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Overall, the confidence in the available data is high, with no significant gaps or ambiguities noted.
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 2026-08-24 05:55:38 GMT (p2)