AInsights Entry for (Z)-musk pentane (CAS: 14595-54-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (Z)-musk pentane
• IUPAC Name: 1-(3,3-dimethylcyclohexyl)pent-1-en-3-one
• CAS Number: 14595-54-1
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C14H24O
• Molecular Weight: 208.34 g/mol

(Z)-musk pentane is a synthetic musk compound characterized by its cyclohexyl and pentenone functional groups. The presence of these groups contributes to its musky odor, which is a key characteristic in fragrance applications. The structural configuration, particularly the (Z)-isomer, influences its olfactory properties, providing a distinct musk scent.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(Z)-musk pentane is known for its musky odor, which is often described as warm, sweet, and slightly woody. The intensity of the scent is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note in fragrance compositions. It is typically used to impart a sense of warmth and depth to a fragrance, acting as a modifier rather than a primary impact note. The odor threshold for (Z)-musk pentane is not clearly reported, but it is generally used in low concentrations due to its potent scent profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(Z)-musk pentane is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally. It is produced through chemical synthesis, often involving the cyclization of appropriate precursors to form the cyclohexyl ring, followed by the introduction of the pentenone moiety. As a synthetic musk, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, which are typically reserved for compounds derived from natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(Z)-musk pentane is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primary role as a fragrance compound. However, in rare cases where a musky note is desired in a flavor profile, it may be used at very low concentrations. Typical use levels in flavors are not well-documented, but industry practice suggests concentrations below 1 ppm in finished products to avoid overpowering the flavor profile. Stability in flavor systems is generally good, with resistance to heat and pH variations, although it may be susceptible to oxidation over time.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, (Z)-musk pentane is valued for its musky scent and is used across various fragrance families, including oriental and woody compositions. It serves as a base note, providing longevity and depth to the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are between 0.1% and 1%, depending on the desired intensity and the other components in the formulation. Its volatility is moderate, allowing it to act as a middle to base note, contributing to the fragrance's persistence.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS for flavor use; primarily regulated under fragrance safety guidelines.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use; used in fragrances under IFRA standards.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Regulatory status varies; not commonly used in flavors, with fragrance use subject to local regulations.
• Latin America: Similar to the US and EU, with fragrance use more common than flavor use.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (Z)-musk pentane is not typically used in flavors, and thus specific ADI or MSDI values are not established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is more relevant, with safety assessments focusing on potential irritation and sensitization. IFRA guidelines provide usage limits to mitigate these risks. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with appropriate ventilation and protective measures.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(Z)-musk pentane is valued for its ability to impart a warm, musky depth to fragrances. It synergizes well with other musks and woody notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the scent. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering musk character. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking subtlety and elegance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (Z)-musk pentane is well-established in the context of fragrance use, with industry practices guiding its application. However, there are gaps in flavor use data, reflecting its limited role in this domain. Regulatory information is consistent across major markets, though specific approvals for flavor use are lacking.

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 2026-07-13 02:36:55 GMT (p2)