FlavScents AInsights Entry for Dextro-Camphor (CAS: 464-49-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Dextro-camphor, (+)-Camphor
• IUPAC Name: (1R)-1,7,7-Trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-one
• CAS Number: 464-49-3
• FEMA Number: 2221
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.012
• Molecular Formula: C10H16O
• Molecular Weight: 152.23 g/mol

Dextro-camphor is a bicyclic monoterpene ketone characterized by its rigid structure and the presence of a ketone functional group. This structure contributes to its distinctive camphoraceous odor, which is both penetrating and cooling. The chiral nature of dextro-camphor is significant in its sensory perception and biological interactions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Dextro-camphor is known for its strong, penetrating, and cooling camphoraceous odor. It is often described as having a sharp, medicinal, and slightly woody scent. The intensity of its odor is high, making it a potent impact note in formulations. While specific taste thresholds are not well-documented, its odor threshold is relatively low, indicating its effectiveness even at minimal concentrations. Dextro-camphor is typically used as an impact note or modifier in both flavor and fragrance compositions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Dextro-camphor naturally occurs in the essential oils of certain aromatic plants, notably in the wood of the camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora). It can also be found in rosemary and some other herbs. The compound is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, a common route for terpenoid formation. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Dextro-camphor is utilized in flavor formulations primarily for its cooling and medicinal notes. It is commonly found in minty and herbal flavor profiles, contributing to the authenticity and complexity of these flavors. Typical use levels in food and beverages range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, dextro-camphor is used across various fragrance families, including fougère, oriental, and woody compositions. It serves as a modifier or impact note, providing a fresh, clean, and medicinal character. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Dextro-camphor is volatile, contributing primarily to the top notes of a fragrance.

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. 02.012.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in some ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, though country-specific variability may exist, particularly in Asia and Latin America.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Dextro-camphor is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances within established limits. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by an acceptable daily intake (ADI) and a margin of safety based on FEMA GRAS status. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, though it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, as noted by IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Dextro-camphor is valued for its distinctive cooling and medicinal notes, which can enhance minty and herbal profiles. It synergizes well with menthol and eucalyptus, providing depth and complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to overpowering and undesirable effects. It is often under-utilized in complex fragrance compositions where its unique character can add freshness and clarity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on dextro-camphor is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. 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
• 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 2026-07-02 09:49:50 GMT (p2)