AInsights Entry for Amber Naphthofuran (CAS: 3738-00-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Amber Naphthofuran
• IUPAC Name: 2,3-Dihydro-1-benzofuran
• CAS Number: 3738-00-9
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C10H10O
• Molecular Weight: 146.19 g/mol

Amber naphthofuran is characterized by its benzofuran structure, which contributes to its unique odor profile. The presence of the furan ring is significant in determining its olfactory properties, often associated with warm, woody, and amber-like notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Amber naphthofuran is known for its warm, woody, and amber-like scent, which is both rich and complex. It is often described as having a sweet, balsamic undertone with a moderate to strong intensity. The diffusion of this compound is notable, making it a valuable component in creating depth and warmth in fragrance compositions. Specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, but it is typically used as an impact note in perfumery.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Amber naphthofuran does not occur naturally and is typically synthesized for use in fragrances. Its formation involves chemical synthesis pathways that are proprietary to manufacturers. As a synthetic compound, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under current regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Amber naphthofuran is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its synthetic nature and primary association with fragrance. When used, it serves as a background note to impart warmth and complexity. Typical use levels in flavors are not well-documented, but industry estimates suggest usage in trace amounts, typically below 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering the flavor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Amber naphthofuran is widely used in the fragrance industry, particularly in amber and oriental fragrance families. It serves as a base note, providing warmth and depth to compositions. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are between 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and diffusion. Its volatility is moderate, contributing to the middle to base notes in a fragrance pyramid.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not 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 guidelines.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence noted.
• Asia: Regulatory status varies; generally follows international fragrance safety standards.
• Latin America: Similar to the US and EU, primarily regulated for fragrance use.

Explicit approvals for flavor use are limited, with harmonized assumptions for fragrance applications. Country-specific variability exists, particularly in Asia and Latin America.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Not typically used in flavors; therefore, oral exposure data is limited. No ADI or MSDI established.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe for use in fragrances; however, IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid irritation or sensitization.
• Inhalation Exposure: Moderate volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered in manufacturing settings.

Risk profiles differ between food and fragrance applications, with more stringent controls in place for fragrance use due to potential dermal and inhalation exposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Amber naphthofuran is valued for its ability to impart warmth and depth to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other woody and balsamic notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a fragrance. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can lead to an overpowering scent profile. It is often under-utilized in lighter fragrance compositions where subtlety is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on amber naphthofuran is well-established in the context of fragrance use, with industry-typical practices documented. However, there are gaps in flavor application data and specific regulatory approvals. Formulators should rely on industry guidelines and safety assessments when incorporating this compound into products.

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 2026-09-09 13:45:01 GMT (p2)