FlavScents AInsights Entry for Musk Ambrette (CAS: 83-66-9)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Musk Ambrette
- IUPAC Name: 2,6-Dinitro-3-methoxy-4-tert-butyltoluene
- CAS Number: 83-66-9
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.034
- Molecular Formula: C12H16N2O5
- Molecular Weight: 268.27 g/mol
Musk ambrette is a synthetic nitro musk, characterized by its aromatic nitro group and methoxy functional group. These contribute to its distinctive musky odor, which is highly valued in perfumery. The tert-butyl group enhances its stability and lipophilicity, making it a persistent fragrance component.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Musk ambrette is renowned for its rich, sweet, and powdery musk aroma, often described as warm and animalic. It has a moderate to strong intensity and excellent diffusion properties, making it a prominent impact note in fragrance compositions. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable scent even at minimal concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Musk ambrette does not occur naturally and is synthesized through chemical processes. It is not derived from any natural sources, which precludes it from being labeled as a "natural fragrance." Its synthesis typically involves nitration reactions of toluene derivatives, a common method for producing nitro musks.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Musk ambrette is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its synthetic origin and potential safety concerns. When used, it serves as a background note to enhance the richness of certain flavor profiles. Typical use levels in food are minimal, often below 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering the primary flavor notes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Musk ambrette is widely used in the fragrance industry, particularly in oriental and floral fragrance families. It acts as a base note, providing depth and longevity to perfumes. Typical concentrations range from 0.1% to 1% in finished products, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its low volatility ensures a lasting scent profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Musk ambrette is not FEMA GRAS for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is subject to IFRA guidelines.
- European Union: Not listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use. Restricted in cosmetics due to sensitization concerns.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Usage varies; Japan and China have specific restrictions in cosmetics.
- Latin America: Generally follows EU guidelines, with specific national variations.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Musk ambrette has raised safety concerns, particularly regarding dermal sensitization and potential carcinogenicity. Oral exposure is limited due to its non-GRAS status. Dermal exposure in fragrances is regulated by IFRA, which recommends restrictions to minimize sensitization risks. Inhalation exposure is generally considered low risk due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be monitored.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Musk ambrette is valued for its ability to impart a warm, musky depth to fragrances. It synergizes well with floral and oriental notes but can be overpowering if overused. Formulators should be cautious of its sensitization potential and adhere to regulatory guidelines. It is often underutilized in modern formulations due to safety concerns, despite its effective olfactory properties.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on musk ambrette is well-documented, particularly regarding its sensory characteristics and regulatory status. However, industry practices may vary, and some safety data gaps exist, particularly concerning long-term exposure effects. Formulators should rely on authoritative sources and current regulatory guidelines.
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 2026-06-11 05:11:00 GMT (p2)