FlavScents AInsights Entry for Neryl Acetone (CAS: 3879-26-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Neryl Acetone
• IUPAC Name: 6,10-dimethyl-5,9-undecadien-2-one
• CAS Number: 3879-26-3
• FEMA Number: Data not found
• Other Identifiers: FL number not clearly reported; CoE number not found; IFRA reference not specified
• Molecular Formula: C13H22O
• Molecular Weight: 194.32 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Neryl acetone is characterized by its ketone functional group, which contributes to its distinctive odor profile. The presence of double bonds in its structure is significant for its reactivity and sensory attributes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Neryl acetone is known for its fresh, floral, and citrus-like odor, often described as reminiscent of neroli and orange blossoms. It has a moderate intensity and is typically used as a modifier or impact note in fragrance compositions. The odor threshold is not clearly reported, but it is generally considered to have a noticeable presence even at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Neryl acetone is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through chemical pathways involving the degradation of terpenes. It is not typically associated with natural flavor or fragrance designations due to its synthetic origin. However, it may be present in trace amounts in certain essential oils as a result of processing or degradation.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Neryl acetone is used in flavor formulations to impart a fresh, citrusy note. It is commonly applied in citrus and floral flavor categories. Its functional role is often as a background realism enhancer or a subtle modifier. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. Stability under heat and acidic conditions is generally good, but it may be prone to oxidation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, neryl acetone is valued for its ability to enhance floral and citrus accords. It is used across various fragrance families, including floral, citrus, and chypre. Its role can vary from a trace realism enhancer to a prominent impact note. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from 0.01% to 0.5%, depending on the desired effect. It 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)

• United States: Neryl acetone does not have a specific FEMA GRAS status but is used under general flavoring principles.
• European Union: Not explicitly listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage is subject to general safety assessments.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Specific regulatory status in Japan, China, and ASEAN countries is not well-documented; typically follows international safety guidelines.
• Latin America: Usage in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries aligns with international standards, though specific approvals are not detailed.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI values are reported for neryl acetone. It is generally considered safe at typical flavoring levels.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use in fragrances.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure, but occupational safety data is limited. General ventilation and exposure minimization practices are recommended.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Neryl acetone is prized for its ability to impart a fresh, citrusy character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral notes, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate blends if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where subtlety is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on neryl acetone is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and general usage. However, specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data are less documented, indicating areas for further research and 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 2026-08-27 09:50:14 GMT (p2)