FlavScents AInsights Entry: Methyl Heptenone (CAS: 110-93-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Methyl Heptenone
• IUPAC Name: 6-Methylhept-5-en-2-one
• CAS Number: 110-93-0
• FEMA Number: 2709
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.191
• Molecular Formula: C8H14O
• Molecular Weight: 126.20 g/mol

Methyl heptenone is a monoterpenoid ketone characterized by its unsaturated aliphatic structure. The presence of a ketone group contributes to its distinctive odor profile, which is often described as citrusy and floral. The double bond in its structure plays a crucial role in its reactivity and sensory characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methyl heptenone is known for its fresh, citrus-like odor with floral undertones. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion properties, making it a versatile component in both flavor and fragrance formulations. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable effects even at minimal concentrations. In flavor applications, it serves as an impact note, enhancing the freshness and realism of citrus profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Methyl heptenone occurs naturally in various essential oils, including those of lemongrass and citronella. It is also found in some fruits and vegetables, contributing to their characteristic aromas. The compound can be formed through the enzymatic degradation of terpenes or via synthetic routes in industrial settings. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, depending on the context of its use.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methyl heptenone is utilized in a variety of flavor categories, particularly in citrus and floral profiles. It acts as a functional component in flavor systems, providing freshness and enhancing the overall aroma complexity. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the specific application and desired intensity. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions, although care should be taken to minimize exposure to high temperatures and oxidative environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, methyl heptenone is incorporated into citrus, floral, and green fragrance families. It serves as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the freshness and vibrancy of the scent. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Due to its volatility, it is primarily used as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

United States

• Flavor Use: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA.
• Fragrance Use: No specific restrictions noted.

European Union

• Flavor Use: Permitted under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
• Fragrance Use: Compliant with IFRA standards.

United Kingdom

• Post-Brexit regulations align closely with EU standards for both flavor and fragrance use.

Asia

• Japan: Approved for use in flavors and fragrances.
• China and ASEAN: Generally recognized as safe, but specific regulations may vary.

Latin America

• Brazil and MERCOSUR: Permitted for use, with adherence to local regulatory frameworks.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Oral Exposure

Methyl heptenone is considered safe for use in food flavors at typical concentrations, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically established but implied through GRAS status.

Dermal Exposure

In fragrance applications, it is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing at typical use levels. IFRA guidelines provide specific concentration limits to ensure safety.

Inhalation Exposure

Due to its volatility, inhalation exposure is possible, but no significant occupational hazards have been reported at standard usage levels.

Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Methyl heptenone is valued for its ability to impart freshness and enhance citrus and floral notes in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral components, providing a balanced and vibrant profile. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential for rapid evaporation, which can lead to under-utilization if not properly managed. It is often under-used in complex formulations where its subtlety can be overshadowed by more dominant notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on methyl heptenone is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, although some variability in use levels and regulatory interpretations may exist. No significant data gaps or regulatory ambiguities have been identified.

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 2026-02-25 18:12:12 GMT (p2)