AInsights Entry for (-)-alpha-fenchol (CAS: 512-13-0)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): (-)-alpha-fenchol
- IUPAC Name: (1R,2R,4S)-1,3,3-trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-ol
- CAS Number: 512-13-0
- FEMA Number: 2480
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.038
- Molecular Formula: C10H18O
- Molecular Weight: 154.25 g/mol
(-)-alpha-fenchol is a monoterpenoid alcohol characterized by a bicyclic structure. Its functional groups include a hydroxyl group, which contributes to its odor profile. The structure-odor relationship is significant as the bicyclic framework and the hydroxyl group influence its fresh, camphoraceous scent.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
(-)-alpha-fenchol is known for its fresh, camphoraceous, and slightly woody odor. It is often described as having a pine-like character with a moderate intensity and good diffusion. The compound serves as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a crisp and clean top note.
Taste and odor thresholds for (-)-alpha-fenchol are not well-documented, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent sensory characteristics.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
(-)-alpha-fenchol naturally occurs in various plant species, including basil (Ocimum basilicum) and certain coniferous trees. It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, which is common for monoterpenes.
This compound is relevant to "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations, as it can be extracted from natural sources or synthesized to match its natural counterpart.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
(-)-alpha-fenchol is utilized in flavor formulations primarily for its fresh and camphoraceous notes. It is commonly found in mint, herbal, and pine flavor categories. Its functional role includes acting as a modifier to enhance freshness and provide a natural, green character.
Typical use levels in finished food or beverages 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 may degrade under high heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, (-)-alpha-fenchol is used across various fragrance families, including fougère, woody, and fresh compositions. It serves as a top note, providing a crisp and invigorating scent. Its volatility is moderate, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.
Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type.
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. 02.038.
- United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
- Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.
Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, but formulators should verify country-specific regulations due to potential variability.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, (-)-alpha-fenchol is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with no specific ADI established. The compound is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by FEMA.
Dermal exposure in fragrance use is considered low risk, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported. IFRA standards provide guidance on safe use concentrations.
Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
(-)-alpha-fenchol is valued for its ability to impart freshness and a natural character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other terpenes and herbal notes. Formulators should be cautious of its potency to avoid overpowering compositions. It is often under-used in complex blends where its fresh note can enhance overall perception.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
Data on (-)-alpha-fenchol is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and regulatory status. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific sensory thresholds may require further research. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, but ongoing monitoring of regional updates is advised.
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 2026-06-10 18:04:27 GMT (p2)