FlavScents AInsights Entry for 3,5,5-trimethyl-3-cyclohexen-1-yl acetate (CAS: 22463-33-8)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Iso E Super
- IUPAC Name: 3,5,5-trimethyl-3-cyclohexen-1-yl acetate
- CAS Number: 22463-33-8
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.037
- Molecular Formula: C12H20O2
- Molecular Weight: 196.29 g/mol
3,5,5-trimethyl-3-cyclohexen-1-yl acetate, commonly known as Iso E Super, is a synthetic fragrance ingredient characterized by its unique woody, amber-like scent. The compound features an acetate functional group, which contributes to its volatility and odor profile. Its structure is significant for its ability to impart a long-lasting, diffusive scent that is highly valued in perfumery.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Iso E Super is renowned for its distinctive woody, amber, and cedarwood-like aroma. It is often described as having a velvety, smooth character with a subtle floral undertone. The intensity of its scent is moderate, providing a persistent and diffusive quality that enhances the overall fragrance composition. While specific taste or odor thresholds are not well-documented, Iso E Super is typically used as an impact note or background enhancer in fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Iso E Super is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally. It is produced through chemical synthesis, typically involving the acetylation of 3,5,5-trimethyl-3-cyclohexen-1-ol. As a synthetic material, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Iso E Super is primarily used in fragrance applications rather than flavors. However, when used in flavor systems, it can contribute a subtle woody note that enhances the complexity of certain profiles. Typical use levels in flavors are not well-documented, but industry practices suggest minimal concentrations, often below 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering the flavor profile. Its stability is generally good, with resistance to heat and pH variations, although it may be susceptible to oxidation over time.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Iso E Super is a staple in the fragrance industry, widely used across various fragrance families, including woody, amber, and floral compositions. It serves as a modifier and impact note, providing depth and diffusion. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes can vary from 1% to 20%, depending on the desired intensity and character. Iso E Super is known for its excellent substantivity and is often used as a middle to base note due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Iso E Super is not specifically listed as FEMA GRAS for flavor use but is widely accepted in fragrance applications.
- European Union: It is included in the EU's list of fragrance allergens, requiring labeling when present above certain concentrations.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit, with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Generally accepted in fragrance applications, with specific regulations varying by country.
- Latin America: Accepted in fragrance formulations, with compliance to local regulations required.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Iso E Super is considered safe for use in fragrances, with a low potential for dermal irritation and sensitization at typical use levels. It is included in the IFRA Standards, which provide guidelines for safe use concentrations. Oral exposure is minimal due to its primary use in fragrances, and inhalation exposure is generally considered safe under normal use conditions. The compound's risk profile does not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications, given its limited use in flavors.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Iso E Super is valued for its ability to enhance the longevity and diffusion of fragrances. It synergizes well with other woody and floral notes, providing a smooth, velvety base. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate a composition if used excessively. It is often under-used in formulations seeking a subtle, sophisticated woody character.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on Iso E Super is well-established, with extensive documentation in fragrance literature. While specific flavor use data is limited, industry practices provide guidance for its application. Regulatory information is comprehensive, though formulators should verify compliance with regional standards.
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 2026-04-23 12:35:54 GMT (p2)