AInsights Entry for (E)-alpha-methyl ionone (74-80%) (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 No. 07.127
• Molecular Formula: C13H20O
• Molecular Weight: 192.3 g/mol

(E)-alpha-methyl ionone is a synthetic compound characterized by its ionone backbone, which includes a cyclohexene ring and a butenone side chain. The presence of the alpha-methyl group contributes to its distinctive odor profile, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(E)-alpha-methyl ionone is known for its floral, woody, and violet-like odor, with moderate intensity and good diffusion. It is often described as having a powdery and sweet character, which makes it a popular choice for imparting a natural floral note in various applications. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations. It serves as an impact note in fragrance compositions and can also act as a modifier to enhance the overall sensory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(E)-alpha-methyl ionone does not occur naturally but is synthesized for use in flavors and fragrances. It is typically produced through the aldol condensation of citral with acetone, followed by cyclization and dehydration. Although it is a synthetic compound, it is often used to mimic natural violet and floral scents, qualifying it for use in "natural fragrance" designations when derived from natural precursors.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(E)-alpha-methyl ionone is utilized in flavor formulations to impart floral and fruity notes, particularly in berry, citrus, and floral flavor profiles. It functions as a background realism enhancer and is typically used at low concentrations, ranging from 0.1 to 5 ppm in finished products. Its stability under various conditions, including heat and pH variations, makes it a versatile ingredient in both food and beverage applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, (E)-alpha-methyl ionone is a key component in floral, woody, and powdery fragrance families. It is used in a wide range of products, including perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics, often at concentrations between 0.1% and 1%. Its volatility allows it to contribute to both the middle and base notes of a fragrance, providing lasting floral and woody characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 07.127.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted under MERCOSUR regulations, with country-specific variations.

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 FEMA GRAS limits, with no specific ADI or MSDI reported. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(E)-alpha-methyl ionone is valued for its ability to impart a natural floral character, often used in synergy with other floral and fruity notes. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering scent. It is frequently underutilized in complex formulations where subtlety is required.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (E)-alpha-methyl ionone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are well-documented, some variability in regulatory acceptance across regions may exist.

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

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 13:58:54 GMT (p2)