FlavScents AInsights Entry for Geranyl Nitrile (CAS: 5146-66-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Geranyl nitrile
• IUPAC Name: 3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienenitrile
• CAS Number: 5146-66-7
• FEMA Number: 3595
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.015
• Molecular Formula: C10H15N
• Molecular Weight: 149.23 g/mol

Geranyl nitrile is a nitrile compound characterized by the presence of a cyano group attached to a geranyl moiety. The structure contributes to its distinctive odor profile, which is often described as green and floral with a hint of citrus. The nitrile group is crucial for its stability and reactivity in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Geranyl nitrile is known for its green, floral, and citrus-like odor, which is both fresh and slightly sweet. It is often used as an impact note in fragrance compositions due to its strong diffusion and moderate intensity. The compound can also impart a subtle citrus flavor in food applications, although specific taste thresholds are not well-documented.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Geranyl nitrile is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through chemical processes. It is often produced via the dehydration of geraniol or by the reaction of geranyl chloride with sodium cyanide. Its synthetic origin means it is typically not classified as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under most regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Geranyl nitrile is used in flavor formulations to impart a fresh, citrus-like note. It is commonly found in citrus and floral flavor categories. Typical use levels in food and beverages range from 0.5 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering or off-notes. The compound is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or oxidative environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In perfumery, geranyl nitrile is valued for its ability to enhance floral and citrus accords. It is used across various fragrance families, including floral, citrus, and green. Concentration levels typically range from 0.1% to 1% in finished products, contributing primarily to the top and middle notes due to its 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: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, but specific regulations may vary across countries like Brazil and within MERCOSUR.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Geranyl nitrile is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances at typical exposure levels. Oral exposure through food is deemed safe under FEMA GRAS guidelines, with no specific ADI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally low-risk, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted for potential sensitization concerns. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Geranyl nitrile is prized for its ability to impart a fresh, green note that enhances both flavor and fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral ingredients but can be overpowering if used excessively. Formulators should be cautious of its stability under heat and oxidative conditions, which can lead to degradation and off-notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on geranyl nitrile is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory characteristics and regulatory status. However, specific quantitative sensory thresholds and detailed toxicological data are less documented, necessitating reliance on industry-typical practices and guidelines.

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 2026-03-23 04:43:21 GMT (p2)