FlavScents AInsights Entry: Beta-Ionone (CAS: 14901-07-6)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Beta-Ionone
- IUPAC Name: 4-(2,6,6-Trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-1-yl)-3-buten-2-one
- CAS Number: 14901-07-6
- FEMA Number: 2593
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.008
- Molecular Formula: C13H20O
- Molecular Weight: 192.30 g/mol
Beta-ionone is a single chemical compound characterized by its cyclohexene ring and conjugated ketone group, which contribute to its distinctive odor profile. The presence of the conjugated double bonds is crucial for its odor characteristics, providing a floral and woody scent that is highly valued in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Beta-ionone is known for its floral, woody, and violet-like odor, which is both intense and diffusive. It is often described as having a sweet, fruity undertone that enhances its appeal in various formulations. The compound serves as an impact note in many fragrance compositions, providing a sense of depth and complexity. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not universally documented, beta-ionone is recognized for its potent sensory impact even at low concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Beta-ionone naturally occurs in a variety of plants, including violets, roses, and certain fruits. It is a degradation product of carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, through enzymatic processes. This compound is significant in the designation of "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its presence in many botanicals and its derivation from natural precursors.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Beta-ionone is utilized in flavor formulations across several categories, including fruit, floral, and spice flavors. It acts as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the authenticity and complexity of flavor profiles. 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. It is generally stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, beta-ionone is a key component in floral and woody fragrance families. It is used to impart a violet-like, powdery note that enhances the overall complexity of a fragrance. Concentration ranges can vary widely, typically from trace amounts to several percent, depending on the desired effect. Beta-ionone contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance, offering moderate volatility.
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 No. 07.008.
- United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions varying by country.
- Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.
Beta-ionone is widely approved for use in both flavors and fragrances, with harmonized regulations across many regions. However, formulators should verify specific country requirements due to potential variability.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, beta-ionone is considered safe within the established use levels, with a high margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is typically low risk due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be in place to minimize prolonged exposure.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Beta-ionone is valued for its ability to impart a natural, floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and fruity notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial scent. It is often underutilized in formulations seeking a subtle, natural enhancement.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on beta-ionone is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. While industry practices are generally consistent, some undocumented variations in use levels and sensory thresholds may exist. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, but formulators should remain aware of regional differences.
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 08:11:23 GMT (p2)