FlavScents AInsights Entry for Menthofuran (CAS: 494-90-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Menthofuran
• IUPAC Name: 3,6-dimethyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1-benzofuran
• CAS Number: 494-90-6
• FEMA Number: 2662
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.062
• Molecular Formula: C10H14O
• Molecular Weight: 150.22 g/mol

Menthofuran is a monoterpene derivative characterized by a furan ring, which contributes to its distinct odor profile. The presence of the furan ring is significant in determining its sensory attributes, often imparting a minty and slightly camphoraceous aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Menthofuran is known for its minty, camphoraceous odor with a slightly sweet undertone. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties. The compound plays a role as an impact note in flavor and fragrance formulations, providing a fresh and cooling sensation. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, its potent aroma suggests a low threshold in applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Menthofuran naturally occurs in several mint species, notably in peppermint (Mentha piperita) and pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium). It is biosynthesized in plants through the enzymatic conversion of pulegone, a process that contributes to the characteristic aroma of these plants. Menthofuran's presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Menthofuran is utilized in flavor formulations primarily within mint-flavored products, including confectionery, chewing gum, and oral care products. It serves as an impact note, enhancing the freshness and authenticity of mint flavors. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering or medicinal notes. Menthofuran is relatively stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under prolonged heat exposure.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, menthofuran is incorporated into minty and herbal fragrance families. It acts as a modifier, adding depth and realism to compositions. Typical concentrations in fragrance formulations are low, often below 0.5%, due to its potent aroma. Menthofuran contributes primarily to the top and middle notes, given its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Menthofuran is FEMA GRAS approved for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 02.062.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Specific regulations vary; generally recognized in Japan and China under flavor use guidelines.
• Latin America: Recognized under MERCOSUR flavor regulations, with specific country approvals varying.

Explicit approvals exist for flavor use, with harmonized assumptions across regions. However, variability in fragrance regulations may occur, particularly concerning concentration limits.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Menthofuran's ADI is not explicitly established, but it is considered safe at typical flavor use levels. The margin of safety is generally adequate given its low ppm usage.
• Dermal Exposure: Potential for irritation or sensitization exists, particularly in high concentrations. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use in fragrances.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential occupational exposure concerns, necessitating proper ventilation in manufacturing settings.

Risk profiles differ between food and fragrance applications, with dermal exposure requiring more stringent controls.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Menthofuran is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, minty character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other mint compounds like menthol and menthone. Formulators should be cautious of its potency to avoid overpowering effects. It is often under-used in complex formulations where subtlety is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on menthofuran is well-established in terms of sensory and regulatory aspects. However, specific toxicological thresholds are less documented, requiring reliance on industry-typical practices. Regulatory ambiguities may exist in fragrance applications due to concentration limits.

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 2026-01-20 19:37:03 GMT (p2)