FlavScents AInsights Entry for Musk Methyl Ketone (CAS: 68140-48-7)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Musk Methyl Ketone
- IUPAC Name: 1-(4-tert-Butylphenyl)ethanone
- CAS Number: 68140-48-7
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: FL number not available, CoE number not available, IFRA reference not available
- Molecular Formula: C12H16O
- Molecular Weight: 176.26 g/mol
Musk methyl ketone is a synthetic aromatic compound characterized by its ketone functional group, which contributes to its musky odor profile. The presence of the tert-butyl group attached to the phenyl ring enhances its stability and odor intensity, making it a valuable component in fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Musk methyl ketone is known for its distinctive musky odor, which is often described as warm, sweet, and powdery. It has a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it suitable for use as an impact note in fragrance compositions. The compound does not have a significant taste profile, as it is primarily used for its olfactory properties. Odor thresholds for musk methyl ketone are not well-documented, but it is typically used in trace amounts to impart a musky character to products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Musk methyl ketone is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally. It is produced through chemical synthesis, often involving the Friedel-Crafts acylation of tert-butylbenzene with acetyl chloride. Due to its synthetic origin, it is not classified as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under current regulatory definitions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Musk methyl ketone is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primary role as a fragrance ingredient. However, when used, it may contribute a subtle musky background note in certain flavor systems. Typical use levels in food and beverages are not well-documented, but it is generally used at very low concentrations, if at all, due to its potent odor.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Musk methyl ketone is widely used in the fragrance industry, particularly in the creation of musky and oriental fragrance families. It serves as a base note, providing depth and longevity to perfumes and personal care products. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its moderate volatility allows it to contribute to the middle and base notes of a fragrance composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Musk methyl ketone is not specifically listed as FEMA GRAS for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is subject to general safety regulations.
- European Union: Not explicitly listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use. Fragrance use is regulated under the EU Cosmetics Regulation.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Regulatory status varies; not widely used in flavors, with fragrance use subject to local cosmetic regulations.
- Latin America: Similar to the US and EU, with fragrance use regulated under cosmetic safety standards.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Musk methyl ketone's safety profile is primarily evaluated in the context of fragrance use. Oral exposure is minimal due to its limited use in flavors. Dermal exposure studies indicate low irritation potential, but sensitization data is limited. Inhalation exposure is considered safe at typical fragrance concentrations, with no significant occupational hazards reported. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications differ, with fragrance use being more prevalent and better studied.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Musk methyl ketone is valued for its ability to impart a musky character and enhance the longevity of fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with floral and woody notes, providing a balanced and complex scent profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering muskiness. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle musky undertone.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on musk methyl ketone is well-established for fragrance applications, with industry-typical practices documented. However, there are gaps in flavor use data and specific regulatory approvals. The compound's synthetic nature limits its classification as a natural ingredient, which may affect its acceptance in certain markets.
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 (not applicable due to limited use)
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable)
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 2026-09-14 07:40:33 GMT (p2)