FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E)-alpha-methyl ionone (44-50%) (CAS: 127-42-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (E)-alpha-methyl ionone
• IUPAC Name: (E)-4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-1-yl)-3-buten-2-one
• CAS Number: 127-42-4
• FEMA Number: 2729
• Other Identifiers: FL number 07.008
• Molecular Formula: C13H20O
• Molecular Weight: 192.3 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: (E)-alpha-methyl ionone is characterized by its ionone core structure, which is a key contributor to its violet-like odor. The presence of the alpha-methyl group enhances its olfactory properties, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(E)-alpha-methyl ionone is renowned for its floral, woody, and violet-like odor profile. It exhibits moderate intensity and excellent diffusion, making it a versatile ingredient in perfumery. The compound is often used as an impact note or a modifier to impart a sense of elegance and sophistication. While specific taste thresholds are not well-documented, its odor threshold is typically low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(E)-alpha-methyl ionone is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through the cyclization of pseudoionone, a process that involves acid-catalyzed rearrangement. This synthetic pathway is crucial for its designation as a "nature-identical" compound in flavor and fragrance applications, aligning with regulatory definitions for natural flavors and fragrances.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, (E)-alpha-methyl ionone is primarily used in floral and fruity profiles, enhancing the complexity and depth of the flavor system. It is commonly found in berry, citrus, and floral flavor categories. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. The compound is stable under a variety of conditions, including heat and pH variations, but may be susceptible to oxidation over time.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

(E)-alpha-methyl ionone is a staple in the fragrance industry, particularly within floral, woody, and oriental fragrance families. It serves as a middle note, providing a long-lasting floral character that enhances the overall bouquet. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations vary from 0.5% to 5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its moderate volatility allows it to blend well with both top and base notes, contributing to a balanced fragrance profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 07.008.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized assumptions across the region.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (E)-alpha-methyl ionone is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI limits, with a favorable margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings to prevent overexposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(E)-alpha-methyl ionone is valued for its ability to impart a sophisticated floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and woody notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering effect, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired impact. Formulators should carefully balance its concentration to achieve the optimal sensory profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (E)-alpha-methyl ionone is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. While industry practices are generally consistent, some variability in regulatory interpretations may exist across regions. Known data gaps are minimal, but ongoing research may provide further insights into its sensory and safety profiles.

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 2026-08-31 13:59:37 GMT (p2)