FlavScents AInsights Entry for 3-Methyl Cyclohexanone (CAS: 591-24-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 3-Methyl Cyclohexanone
• IUPAC Name: 3-Methylcyclohexanone
• CAS Number: 591-24-2
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C7H12O
• Molecular Weight: 112.17 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: 3-Methyl cyclohexanone is a ketone with a cyclohexane ring substituted with a methyl group. The ketone functional group is known for contributing to the compound's characteristic odor, which is often described as minty or camphoraceous. The methyl substitution can influence the intensity and diffusion of the odor.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

3-Methyl cyclohexanone is characterized by a minty, camphoraceous odor with moderate intensity. It is often used as an impact note in fragrance compositions due to its distinctive scent profile. The compound's odor threshold is not clearly reported in the literature, but it is typically used in formulations where a fresh, mint-like character is desired. Its sensory role is primarily as an impact note, providing a sharp, fresh top note in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

3-Methyl cyclohexanone is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for industrial use. It can be formed through the oxidation of 3-methylcyclohexanol or via catalytic hydrogenation of phenol derivatives. Its synthetic origin means it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

3-Methyl cyclohexanone is used in flavor formulations to impart a minty, fresh note. It is particularly useful in mint-flavored products, such as chewing gums and confectionery. Typical use levels in finished food products are not well-documented, but industry practice suggests low ppm levels, often below 10 ppm, to achieve the desired sensory impact without overpowering other flavor components. The compound is relatively stable under typical food processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, 3-methyl cyclohexanone is valued for its fresh, minty aroma, making it suitable for use in personal care products, household cleaners, and air fresheners. It is often used as a top note due to its volatility and ability to provide an immediate fresh impact. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are not explicitly documented, but it is generally used at low levels to avoid overpowering the overall scent profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage in flavors and fragrances should comply with general safety standards.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general safety and labeling requirements.
• 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; general safety compliance is advised.
• Latin America: Regulatory information for Brazil and MERCOSUR is limited; adherence to local safety standards is recommended.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data on acceptable daily intake (ADI) or margin of safety for oral exposure is not available. Formulators should ensure usage levels are within industry-typical ranges to minimize risk.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on dermal irritation or sensitization; formulators should conduct patch testing for new formulations.
• Inhalation Exposure: As a volatile compound, inhalation exposure should be minimized in occupational settings. Adequate ventilation and protective equipment are recommended.

Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications, with fragrance use potentially posing higher dermal exposure risks.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

3-Methyl cyclohexanone is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, minty character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other minty and camphoraceous notes, enhancing the overall freshness of a formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent or flavor. It is frequently under-used in complex formulations where a subtle minty note is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 3-methyl cyclohexanone is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, which necessitate cautious use in formulations. Industry practices often guide its application in the absence of explicit regulatory guidance.

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 2026-02-20 14:48:09 GMT (p2)