FlavScents AInsights Entry for Fenchol (CAS: 1632-73-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Fenchol, also known as 1,3,3-Trimethyl-2-norbornanol, is a monoterpenoid alcohol with the CAS number 1632-73-1. It is recognized by the FEMA number 2481. The molecular formula of fenchol is C10H18O, and it has a molecular weight of 154.25 g/mol. Fenchol is characterized by its bicyclic structure, which contributes to its distinctive odor profile. The presence of the hydroxyl group in its structure is crucial for its odor characteristics, providing a fresh, camphoraceous scent that is highly valued in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Fenchol is known for its fresh, camphoraceous, and slightly woody odor. It is often described as having a pine-like scent with a hint of citrus. The intensity of fenchol's odor is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. In flavor applications, fenchol can impart a refreshing, herbal taste, often used to enhance the perception of freshness in minty or citrus profiles. The odor threshold of fenchol is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Fenchol naturally occurs in various plant species, including basil (Ocimum basilicum) and certain pine species. It is typically formed through the enzymatic degradation of terpenes in these plants. Fenchol's presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in products labeled as containing "natural flavors" or "natural fragrances," depending on the extraction and processing methods used.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, fenchol is used to impart a fresh, herbal note, often enhancing mint, citrus, and herbal profiles. It is commonly used in confectionery, beverages, and oral care products. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.5 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering camphoraceous notes. Fenchol is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to air, necessitating careful formulation considerations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Fenchol is utilized in various fragrance families, including fougère, woody, and fresh compositions. It serves as a modifier or impact note, providing a fresh, clean scent that enhances the overall fragrance profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Fenchol contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, fenchol is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned an FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, fenchol is permitted in Japan and China, though specific use levels may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR recognize fenchol under harmonized flavor regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Fenchol is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure 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 safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling to prevent irritation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Fenchol is valued for its ability to impart freshness and enhance herbal and citrus notes in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other terpenes and minty compounds. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate a composition if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in complex fragrance blends where its fresh note can provide a unique twist.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on fenchol is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific use levels may vary by application. Some data gaps exist in regional regulatory specifics, but these are generally harmonized across major markets.

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 15:08:49 GMT (p2)