FlavScents AInsights Entry for 1,8-Cineole (CAS: 470-82-6)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
1,8-Cineole, also known as eucalyptol, is a monoterpenoid and a cyclic ether. Its IUPAC name is 1,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octane. The CAS number for 1,8-cineole is 470-82-6, and it is recognized by FEMA with the number 2465. Other identifiers include the FL number 02.015 and CoE number 309. The molecular formula of 1,8-cineole is C10H18O, and it has a molecular weight of 154.25 g/mol. The compound is characterized by its ether functional group, which contributes to its distinctive camphoraceous odor. This structural feature is crucial for its role in both flavor and fragrance applications, providing a fresh, cooling sensation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
1,8-Cineole is known for its camphoraceous, minty, and slightly spicy odor profile. It is often described as having a fresh, cooling aroma with moderate intensity and good diffusion. The compound is used as an impact note in both flavor and fragrance formulations, providing a characteristic eucalyptus-like scent. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, 1,8-cineole is typically used in small concentrations due to its potent sensory impact.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
1,8-Cineole is naturally found in a variety of essential oils, most notably eucalyptus oil, but also in rosemary, sage, and bay leaves. It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, which leads to the formation of monoterpenes. The compound's presence in essential oils makes it a candidate for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, 1,8-cineole is used to impart a fresh, cooling sensation, often in mint and eucalyptus-flavored products. It is commonly found in confectionery, oral care products, and beverages. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. The compound is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
1,8-Cineole is a versatile component in fragrance formulations, contributing to the freshness and camphoraceous notes in various fragrance families, including fougère and aromatic compositions. It serves as a modifier and impact note, often used in concentrations ranging from trace amounts to 1% in the final product. Due to its volatility, 1,8-cineole is typically a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, 1,8-cineole is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have their own regulatory frameworks, generally aligning with international standards. In Latin America, Brazil and MERCOSUR countries also recognize its use in flavors and fragrances, with specific guidelines varying by country.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, 1,8-cineole is considered safe within the limits established by FEMA and other regulatory bodies, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically defined but implied through GRAS status. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though IFRA provides guidelines to prevent irritation and sensitization. Inhalation exposure, particularly in occupational settings, should be monitored due to its volatility, although it is not considered hazardous at typical use levels.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
1,8-Cineole is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, cooling effect in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other minty and herbal notes, enhancing the overall freshness of a formulation. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering camphoraceous character. It is often under-utilized in complex blends where its fresh note can provide a subtle lift.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 1,8-cineole is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources like FEMA and EFSA. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Overall, the compound's safety and efficacy are supported by a robust body of literature.
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
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 2026-02-13 12:57:10 GMT (p2)