FlavScents AInsights Entry for 1-ethyl-3-methoxytricycloheptane (CAS: 31996-78-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Not widely known by common names.
• IUPAC Name: 1-ethyl-3-methoxytricyclo[2.2.1.0²,⁶]heptane
• CAS Number: 31996-78-8
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C10H16O
• Molecular Weight: 152.23 g/mol

1-ethyl-3-methoxytricycloheptane is a bicyclic compound featuring an ether functional group. The presence of the methoxy group contributes to its potential odor characteristics, which are often associated with sweet, woody, or camphoraceous notes in similar structures.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

1-ethyl-3-methoxytricycloheptane is characterized by a woody, slightly sweet odor profile, reminiscent of camphor and cedarwood. The intensity is moderate, making it suitable as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. Specific taste or odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its sensory role is typically as a subtle enhancer rather than a dominant note.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

This compound is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities and is typically synthesized for use in flavor and fragrance applications. Its formation does not involve common natural pathways like the Maillard reaction or fermentation, which limits its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under most regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

1-ethyl-3-methoxytricycloheptane is used in flavor formulations primarily for its woody and sweet notes. It finds applications in categories such as confectionery, beverages, and baked goods. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. The compound is stable under typical food processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, 1-ethyl-3-methoxytricycloheptane is valued for its ability to impart a woody, camphoraceous character. It is used in various fragrance families, including woody and fougère. Concentration ranges in formulations are typically low, often less than 1%, due to its potent odor profile. It contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; assumed safe under general flavoring guidelines.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Limited specific data; general safety standards apply.
• Latin America: No specific listings; general safety standards apply.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI values available; use should be guided by general safety assessments.
• 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; occupational safety measures should be considered.

Risk profiles may vary between food and fragrance applications, with dermal exposure being more relevant in the latter.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

1-ethyl-3-methoxytricycloheptane is valued for its ability to enhance woody and sweet notes in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other woody and spicy notes but can be overpowering if used excessively. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity and potential to dominate a blend.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on 1-ethyl-3-methoxytricycloheptane is limited, with most information derived from industry practices and analogous compounds. Regulatory and safety data are not comprehensive, necessitating cautious use and adherence to general safety guidelines.

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 2026-08-25 13:34:05 GMT (p2)