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

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Amber Naphthofuran
• IUPAC Name: 2,3-Dihydro-2,2-dimethyl-7-benzofuranmethanol
• CAS Number: 3738-00-9
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C12H14O2
• Molecular Weight: 190.24 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 rich, warm, and woody aroma with a distinct amber character. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing depth and warmth.

Taste and odor thresholds for amber naphthofuran are not clearly reported in the literature. However, its sensory role is predominantly as a background realism enhancer in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Amber naphthofuran does not occur naturally and is typically synthesized for use in fragrance and flavor applications. 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 used in flavor applications to impart warm, woody, and amber-like notes. It is commonly found in flavor categories such as vanilla, caramel, and some spice blends. Its functional role in flavor systems is as a background enhancer, adding complexity and depth.

Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products are not well-documented. Industry-typical estimates suggest usage in the range of 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application. Stability considerations include moderate resistance to heat and pH variations, but it may be susceptible to oxidation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, amber naphthofuran is valued for its contribution to amber and woody fragrance families. It serves as a modifier and impact note, often used in fine fragrances, personal care products, and home care items.

Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 2%, depending on the desired olfactory impact. It is considered a middle to base note due to its moderate volatility and lasting character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage in flavors and fragrances is subject to general safety evaluations.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage is governed by general safety and labeling requirements.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Specific regulatory status in Japan, China, and ASEAN countries is not clearly documented; general safety assessments apply.
• Latin America: Regulatory status in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries is not explicitly detailed; harmonized safety evaluations are assumed.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Amber naphthofuran's safety profile is primarily evaluated through its intended use in flavors and fragrances. Oral exposure data, such as ADI or MSDI, is not available, necessitating reliance on industry best practices for safe use levels.

For dermal exposure, it is important to consider potential irritation or sensitization, although specific data is limited. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance applications to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Inhalation exposure considerations are relevant for occupational settings, where adequate ventilation and protective measures are recommended to minimize risk.

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 both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other woody and amber notes, enhancing the overall complexity of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering effect, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired warmth.

Formulators should consider its moderate volatility and potential for oxidation when designing products, ensuring stability and longevity in the final application.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on amber naphthofuran is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are notable gaps in specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data. Industry practices often guide its use, with reliance on general safety evaluations and best-practice 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
• 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 2026-06-10 18:48:43 GMT (p2)