FlavScents AInsights Entry for Amber Naphthofuran (CAS: 3738-00-9)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Amber naphthofuran is a synthetic aromatic compound primarily used in the fragrance industry. Its IUPAC name is 2,3-dihydro-2,2-dimethyl-7-naphthalenyl-5-benzofuranmethanol. The CAS number for amber naphthofuran is 3738-00-9. Currently, there is no FEMA number assigned to this compound. Other identifiers include its molecular formula, C18H18O2, and a molecular weight of 266.34 g/mol. The compound features a furan ring, which is significant for its odor profile, contributing to its characteristic amber-like scent.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Amber naphthofuran is known for its warm, woody, and amber-like odor, often described as rich and complex. It is used to impart a deep, long-lasting amber note in fragrance compositions. The intensity of its scent is moderate to strong, with good diffusion properties. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, it is typically used as an impact note in perfumery, providing a luxurious and sophisticated character to fragrance blends.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Amber naphthofuran does not occur naturally and is 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 primary role in perfumery. However, if used, it would likely serve as a background realism enhancer in complex flavor systems. Typical use levels in flavors are not well-documented, but industry estimates suggest it would be used at very low ppm levels due to its potent aroma. Stability in flavor systems is generally good, with resistance to heat and pH variations, though it may be susceptible to oxidation over time.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, amber naphthofuran is a valuable component in amber and oriental fragrance families. It serves as a base note, providing depth and longevity to the scent profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are between 0.1% and 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility is moderate, contributing to the middle to base notes in a fragrance composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, amber naphthofuran is not listed as a FEMA GRAS substance for flavor use. In the European Union, it is subject to the regulations under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008, though specific FL number status is not available. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, regulatory status may vary, with Japan and China having specific guidelines for synthetic fragrance compounds. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR may have their own regulatory frameworks, though detailed information is limited.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, amber naphthofuran is not typically used in food, so ADI, TTC, and MSDI values are not applicable. Dermal exposure in fragrances is more relevant, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported at typical use levels. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific restrictions. Inhalation exposure is considered safe at typical fragrance concentrations, though occupational exposure should be monitored to prevent overexposure.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Amber naphthofuran is prized for its ability to impart a rich, amber character to fragrances, making it a staple in luxury and niche perfumery. It synergizes well with other woody and oriental notes, enhancing the overall depth and complexity of a fragrance. Formulators should be cautious of its potency to avoid overpowering the blend. It is often under-used in mass-market products due to cost considerations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on amber naphthofuran is well-established in the fragrance industry, with consistent sensory and stability profiles reported. However, its use in flavors is less documented, leading to industry-typical practices rather than standardized guidelines. Regulatory ambiguities exist in non-EU regions, necessitating careful review of local regulations.
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 2026-10-29 11:55:09 GMT (p2)
