FlavScents AInsights Entry for Alpha-Terpineol (CAS: 98-55-5)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Alpha-terpineol is a monoterpene alcohol commonly used in the flavor and fragrance industry. Its IUPAC name is 2-(4-methylcyclohex-3-en-1-yl)propan-2-ol. The CAS number for alpha-terpineol is 98-55-5. It is also identified by FEMA number 3049. The molecular formula is C10H18O, and it has a molecular weight of 154.25 g/mol. Alpha-terpineol contains a hydroxyl group, which contributes to its solubility in water and its characteristic floral and lilac-like odor. The presence of the cyclohexene ring and the methyl group influences its olfactory properties, making it a versatile component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Alpha-terpineol is known for its pleasant floral aroma, often described as lilac, citrus, and pine-like. It has a moderate intensity and is used to impart a fresh, clean scent in various applications. The odor threshold of alpha-terpineol is relatively low, making it effective even at low concentrations. In flavor applications, it provides a subtle citrus and floral note, enhancing the overall profile of the product. Its role as an impact note or modifier is crucial in creating balanced sensory experiences.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Alpha-terpineol naturally occurs in a variety of essential oils, including pine oil, petitgrain oil, and cajuput oil. It can also be found in the oils of eucalyptus and tea tree. The compound is typically formed through the hydration of terpinolene or the rearrangement of alpha-pinene. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in products labeled as "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance," depending on the extraction and processing methods used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In the flavor industry, alpha-terpineol is used across various categories, including citrus, floral, and herbal flavors. It serves as a functional component that enhances the freshness and complexity of flavor systems. Typical use levels in food and beverages range from 1 to 20 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the matrix of the product. It is generally stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions, which should be considered during formulation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Alpha-terpineol is a versatile ingredient in the fragrance industry, commonly used in floral, citrus, and woody fragrance families. It acts as a modifier or impact note, providing a fresh and clean scent profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations vary from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the product type and desired olfactory impact. Due to its moderate volatility, alpha-terpineol contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, alpha-terpineol is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for its use in flavors and fragrances, while ASEAN countries generally align with international standards. In Latin America, regulations may vary, but alpha-terpineol is generally accepted for use in both flavors and fragrances.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Alpha-terpineol is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications when used within recommended levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, although it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Alpha-terpineol is valued for its ability to enhance and modify both flavor and fragrance profiles. It synergizes well with other floral and citrus notes, providing a fresh and clean character. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to overpower delicate compositions if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can add depth and realism.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on alpha-terpineol is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are generally consistent with documented guidelines, although some regional regulatory nuances may exist. Known data gaps are minimal, and the compound's safety profile is well-supported by scientific literature.
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 2026-08-19 06:26:37 GMT (p2)