FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E)-alpha-bisabolene (CAS: 25532-79-0)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): (E)-alpha-bisabolene
- IUPAC Name: (E)-1-Methyl-4-(6-methylhept-5-en-2-yl)cyclohexene
- CAS Number: 25532-79-0
- FEMA Number: Data not found
- Other Identifiers: FL number not clearly reported; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not specified
- Molecular Formula: C15H24
- Molecular Weight: 204.35 g/mol
(E)-alpha-bisabolene is a sesquiterpene hydrocarbon characterized by its cyclohexene ring and isoprenoid side chain. The presence of the double bond in the E-configuration contributes to its specific odor profile, which is often described as woody and spicy. The structural features of (E)-alpha-bisabolene are significant in determining its volatility and interaction with olfactory receptors.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
(E)-alpha-bisabolene is known for its woody, spicy, and slightly balsamic odor. It is often used as a background note in fragrance compositions, providing depth and complexity. The intensity of its aroma is moderate, making it suitable for both impact and modifier roles in formulations. Specific odor thresholds are not clearly reported in the literature, but it is generally considered to have a noticeable presence at low concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
(E)-alpha-bisabolene is naturally found in various essential oils, including those of ginger, lemon, and certain types of chamomile. It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, a common route for the formation of sesquiterpenes. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural fragrance" or "natural flavor" component, depending on the context of use.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
(E)-alpha-bisabolene is utilized in flavor formulations primarily for its woody and spicy notes, which can enhance the complexity of citrus, spice, and herbal flavors. It is typically used at low concentrations, often in the range of 1-10 ppm in finished products, although specific documented ranges are not widely available. Its stability under heat and acidic conditions makes it a versatile component in various food and beverage applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, (E)-alpha-bisabolene is valued for its ability to impart woody and spicy nuances. It is commonly used in oriental and woody fragrance families, contributing to both top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are not explicitly documented but are generally low, reflecting its role as a background or modifier note.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: (E)-alpha-bisabolene is not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA, and its use in flavors and fragrances is subject to general safety evaluations.
- European Union: Under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, it is not specifically listed, but its use is governed by general safety and labeling requirements.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the regulatory alignment with the EU remains, with no specific divergence reported.
- Asia: In Japan and China, (E)-alpha-bisabolene is used in flavors and fragrances under general safety guidelines, with no specific restrictions noted.
- Latin America: In Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, its use is similarly governed by general safety standards, with no specific approvals or restrictions documented.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, specific ADI or MSDI values for (E)-alpha-bisabolene are not clearly reported, but it is generally considered safe at low concentrations typical of flavor use. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications may pose a risk of irritation or sensitization, although specific IFRA guidelines are not detailed. Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant in occupational settings, where adequate ventilation and protective measures are recommended to minimize risk.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
(E)-alpha-bisabolene is prized for its ability to enhance woody and spicy notes in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with citrus and herbal components, providing depth and complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate at higher concentrations, which can lead to an imbalance in the overall profile. It is often underutilized in formulations seeking a subtle woody character.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on (E)-alpha-bisabolene is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory characteristics. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, reflecting a reliance on general safety assumptions. Industry practices are informed by empirical use rather than comprehensive regulatory guidance.
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 2026-01-28 07:18:28 GMT (p2)