FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-Methyl Benzofuran (CAS: 4265-25-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 2-Methyl Benzofuran
• IUPAC Name: 2-Methyl-1-benzofuran
• CAS Number: 4265-25-2
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C9H8O
• Molecular Weight: 132.16 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: 2-Methyl benzofuran is characterized by a benzofuran ring with a methyl group at the 2-position. This structure contributes to its distinct aromatic properties, often associated with a sweet, woody, and slightly balsamic odor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

2-Methyl benzofuran is known for its sweet, woody, and slightly balsamic odor. It is often described as having a moderate intensity with a pleasant, warm character. The compound is typically used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing depth and complexity. Specific taste and odor thresholds are not clearly reported in the literature, but its sensory role is primarily as a modifier and enhancer in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

2-Methyl benzofuran is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for use in flavors and fragrances. It can be formed through synthetic pathways involving the cyclization of appropriate precursors. Its relevance to "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations is limited due to its synthetic origin, although it may be used in formulations labeled as such if derived from natural precursors.

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

4. Use in Flavors

2-Methyl benzofuran is utilized in various flavor categories, including sweet and woody profiles. It serves as a functional modifier, enhancing the depth and complexity of flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products are not well-documented, but industry-typical estimates suggest low ppm ranges. Stability considerations include moderate resistance to heat and pH variations, though it may be susceptible to oxidation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, 2-methyl benzofuran is used across several fragrance families, including woody and oriental types. It acts as a trace realism enhancer and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a composition. Typical concentration ranges are qualitative, with usage often in trace amounts to achieve the desired olfactory effect. Its volatility allows it to contribute to both the initial impression and the lingering scent of a fragrance.

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 and regulatory guidelines.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring substance regulations.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with regional safety standards is advised.
• Latin America: Specific regulatory data not found; harmonized assumptions with international standards are typical.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI, TTC, or MSDI values. General safety practices suggest low exposure levels in flavor applications.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance use.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered.

Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications, with fragrance use requiring careful consideration of dermal and inhalation exposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

2-Methyl benzofuran is valued for its ability to enhance and modify both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other woody and sweet notes, providing depth and complexity. Common formulation pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent or flavor. It is frequently under-used in applications where a subtle, warm character is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 2-methyl benzofuran is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data. Industry practices often rely on undocumented but typical usage patterns, and regulatory ambiguities may exist in certain regions.

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 2026-04-29 07:03:29 GMT (p2)