AInsights Entry for Dextro-Carvone (CAS: 2244-16-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Dextro-carvone, (R)-Carvone
• IUPAC Name: (R)-5-Isopropenyl-2-methylcyclohex-2-enone
• CAS Number: 2244-16-8
• FEMA Number: 2245
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.146
• Molecular Formula: C10H14O
• Molecular Weight: 150.22 g/mol

Dextro-carvone is a monoterpenoid ketone characterized by its cyclohexenone structure with an isopropenyl group. The presence of the ketone functional group is crucial for its distinctive minty aroma, which is a key factor in its sensory applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Dextro-carvone is renowned for its minty, fresh, and slightly sweet aroma, often described as reminiscent of spearmint. It exhibits a moderate to high intensity with a clean, cooling effect. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a characteristic minty profile. Odor thresholds are typically low, allowing for effective use in small concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Dextro-carvone is naturally found in essential oils, particularly in spearmint oil (Mentha spicata) and caraway oil (Carum carvi). It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, leading to the formation of monoterpenes. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for "natural flavor" designation under various regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Dextro-carvone is extensively used in mint-flavored products, including chewing gums, confectionery, and oral care products. It serves as a primary flavoring agent, providing the characteristic minty taste. Typical use levels in finished products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity. It is 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 fragrances, dextro-carvone is utilized in minty and fresh fragrance families, often in personal care products like shampoos and deodorants. It acts as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness. Typical concentrations range from 0.1% to 1% in fragrance formulations, depending on the product type and desired effect.

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. 07.146.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, dextro-carvone is considered safe within established ADI limits, with a wide margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications shows low irritation potential, but sensitization should be monitored. Inhalation exposure is generally safe at typical use levels, though occupational exposure should be controlled to prevent irritation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Dextro-carvone is valued for its potent minty aroma, making it a staple in mint-flavored and fragranced products. It synergizes well with other minty and herbal notes. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can lead to overpowering effects. It is often underutilized in non-mint applications where a fresh note could enhance complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on dextro-carvone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification.

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 2026-08-29 09:18:31 GMT (p2)