AInsights Entry for (Z)-beta-ocimene (CAS: 3338-55-4)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): (Z)-beta-ocimene
- IUPAC Name: (3Z)-3,7-dimethylocta-1,3,6-triene
- CAS Number: 3338-55-4
- FEMA Number: Data not found
- Other Identifiers: FL number not clearly reported; CoE number not found; IFRA reference not clearly reported
- Molecular Formula: C10H16
- Molecular Weight: 136.24 g/mol
- Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: (Z)-beta-ocimene is a monoterpene with a linear structure, contributing to its characteristic floral and sweet odor profile. The presence of conjugated double bonds is significant for its volatility and sensory attributes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
- Odor and Flavor Descriptors: (Z)-beta-ocimene is characterized by a sweet, floral, and herbaceous aroma with a hint of citrus. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion.
- Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific thresholds are not clearly reported in the literature.
- Typical Sensory Role: It serves as an impact note in floral and citrus compositions, providing freshness and complexity.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
- Known Natural Sources: (Z)-beta-ocimene is naturally found in a variety of plants, including mint, basil, and orchids. It is also present in some fruits and vegetables.
- Formation Pathways: It is biosynthesized in plants via the mevalonate pathway, involving the cyclization of geranyl pyrophosphate.
- Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in products labeled as containing natural flavors or fragrances.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
- Flavor Categories and Applications: Commonly used in citrus, floral, and herbal flavor profiles.
- Functional Role in Flavor Systems: Acts as a modifier and enhancer, adding freshness and complexity.
- Typical Use Levels: Industry-typical use levels range from 0.1 to 5 ppm in finished food or beverage products.
- Stability Considerations: (Z)-beta-ocimene is relatively stable under neutral pH but can be prone to oxidation, affecting its sensory properties.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
- Fragrance Families and Product Types: Widely used in floral, citrus, and green fragrance families. Common in perfumes, body sprays, and air fresheners.
- Functional Role: Provides trace realism and acts as a modifier.
- Typical Concentration Ranges: Typically used at concentrations of 0.1% to 1% in fragrance formulations.
- Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: It is a top note, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA.
- European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number status): Not clearly reported.
- United Kingdom (Post-Brexit Alignment or Divergence): Follows EU regulations; specific divergences not reported.
- Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): High-level regulatory status not clearly reported.
- Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): High-level regulatory status not clearly reported.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Data on ADI, TTC, or MSDI not found. Generally considered safe at low concentrations typical in flavor applications.
- Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use in fragrances.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatile nature suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
- Why This Material is Valuable: (Z)-beta-ocimene is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, floral character to both flavors and fragrances.
- Typical Synergies: Works well with other floral and citrus notes, enhancing overall freshness.
- Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering floral note; careful balancing is required.
- Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-Used: Often under-used in complex formulations where its subtlety can be overshadowed.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
- Well-Established Data: Sensory characteristics and natural occurrence are well-documented.
- Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Use levels and stability considerations are based on industry norms.
- Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are limited.
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 2026-07-10 16:18:17 GMT (p2)