FlavScents AInsights Entry for Beta-Damascone (CAS: 35044-68-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Beta-Damascone
• IUPAC Name: (E)-1-(2,6,6-Trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-1-yl)-2-buten-1-one
• CAS Number: 35044-68-9
• FEMA Number: 3422
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.127
• Molecular Formula: C13H18O
• Molecular Weight: 190.28 g/mol

Beta-damascone is a ketone with a cyclohexene ring and a conjugated carbonyl group, contributing to its potent odor profile. The structure-odor relationship is significant, as the conjugated system enhances its olfactory impact, making it a valuable component in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Beta-damascone is characterized by a powerful, fruity, floral aroma reminiscent of rose and apple, with nuances of plum and blackcurrant. It is known for its high intensity and excellent diffusion, making it an impactful note in formulations. The odor threshold is low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations. Typically, beta-damascone serves as an impact note, providing a rich, complex character to both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Beta-damascone occurs naturally in a variety of plants, including roses and blackcurrants. It is formed through the degradation of carotenoids, a process that can occur during the ripening of fruits or through enzymatic reactions. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, depending on the context of its use.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Beta-damascone is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit and floral profiles. It is commonly found in applications such as beverages, confectionery, and baked goods. Its functional role is to enhance the overall flavor profile by adding depth and complexity. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but can degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, beta-damascone is a key component in floral and fruity fragrance families. It is used in perfumes, personal care products, and household items. Its role is often as a modifier or impact note, providing a rich, naturalistic quality. Concentration ranges vary, but it is typically used at low levels due to its potency. Beta-damascone contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance, offering moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 07.127.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved in Japan and China, with specific use levels defined by local regulations.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific guidelines in countries like Brazil under MERCOSUR.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, though some variability exists in specific country regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, beta-damascone is considered safe within the established use levels, with a high margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, but IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, 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

Beta-damascone is valued for its ability to impart a natural, complex aroma to formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potency to avoid overpowering the blend. It is often under-used in formulations seeking a naturalistic character, while overuse can lead to an artificial perception.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on beta-damascone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some variability in use levels and regulatory interpretations may exist. Known data gaps are minimal, with ongoing research continuing to refine its applications.

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 08:10:15 GMT (p2)