FlavScents AInsights Entry for Gamma-Terpinene (CAS: 99-85-4)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Gamma-terpinene
- IUPAC Name: 1-methyl-4-(propan-2-ylidene)cyclohexene
- CAS Number: 99-85-4
- FEMA Number: 3559
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.062
- Molecular Formula: C10H16
- Molecular Weight: 136.24 g/mol
Gamma-terpinene is a monoterpene hydrocarbon characterized by a cyclohexene ring with a methyl and an isopropylidene group. Its structure contributes to its distinctive odor profile, which is significant in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Gamma-terpinene is known for its fresh, citrusy, and slightly herbal aroma. It is often described as having a lemon-like scent with a hint of spice. The intensity of its odor is moderate, making it suitable as both an impact note and a background modifier in formulations. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, its sensory role is primarily as a contributor to citrus and herbal notes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Gamma-terpinene is naturally found in a variety of essential oils, including those from citrus fruits, coriander, and cumin. It is typically formed through the enzymatic degradation of limonene and other related terpenes. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Gamma-terpinene is utilized in flavor formulations for its ability to impart citrus and herbal notes. It is commonly used in citrus-flavored beverages, confectionery, and savory products. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering or off-notes. It is relatively stable under typical food processing conditions but may degrade under prolonged exposure to heat and light.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, gamma-terpinene is valued for its fresh and uplifting citrus character. It is used in a variety of fragrance families, including citrus, herbal, and spicy compositions. Its role can vary from a top note to a modifier, depending on the formulation. Typical concentration ranges are from 0.1% to 1% in the final product, with its volatility contributing primarily to the top and middle notes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
- European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 02.062.
- United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific limits varying by country.
- Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.
Gamma-terpinene is widely accepted across major markets, though formulators should verify specific regional requirements.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Gamma-terpinene is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it is included in the FEMA GRAS list, indicating a recognized safety profile. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be in place during handling.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Gamma-terpinene is a versatile ingredient that enhances citrus and herbal profiles. It synergizes well with other terpenes and citrus oils, providing a fresh and vibrant character. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate blends at high concentrations and should consider its stability under various processing conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on gamma-terpinene is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are generally consistent, some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps are minimal, primarily related to specific sensory thresholds.
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
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 2026-07-10 06:36:41 GMT (p2)