FlavScents AInsights Entry for Germacrene B (CAS: 15423-57-1)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Germacrene B
- IUPAC Name: (1E,4E,8E)-1,5,9,9-tetramethyl-1,4,8-cycloundecatriene
- CAS Number: 15423-57-1
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C15H24
- Molecular Weight: 204.35 g/mol
Germacrene B is a sesquiterpene characterized by its tricyclic structure, which contributes to its distinct odor profile. The presence of multiple double bonds and methyl groups influences its volatility and sensory characteristics, making it relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Germacrene B is known for its woody, spicy, and slightly balsamic odor profile. It is often described as having a warm, earthy scent with moderate intensity and diffusion. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, germacrene B typically serves as a background realism note or a modifier in complex formulations, enhancing the depth and richness of the overall sensory experience.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Germacrene B is naturally found in various essential oils, including those of ginger, cardamom, and certain types of cedarwood. It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, a common route for the formation of terpenes. 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
Germacrene B is utilized in flavor formulations primarily within the spice and herbal categories. It contributes to the authenticity and complexity of flavors, often used in trace amounts to enhance the overall profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with these values being industry-typical estimates. Germacrene B is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or oxidative environments.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, germacrene B is valued for its contribution to woody and spicy fragrance families. It acts as a modifier or impact note, providing depth and warmth to compositions. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.01% to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Germacrene B is considered a middle to base note due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Germacrene B does not have a specific FEMA GRAS status but is generally recognized as safe when used within typical flavor and fragrance concentrations.
- European Union: Not explicitly listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; however, it is used under the assumption of safety in traditional applications.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Limited specific data; generally accepted in traditional applications.
- Latin America: Usage is typically aligned with international standards, though specific regulatory data is limited.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI values. Germacrene B is considered safe at typical flavor use levels.
- Dermal Exposure: No significant irritation or sensitization reported at typical fragrance concentrations. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific product types.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests low risk under normal use conditions, but occupational exposure should be monitored in manufacturing settings.
Risk profiles do not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications, assuming adherence to typical use levels.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Germacrene B is valued for its ability to enhance the complexity and authenticity of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other woody and spicy notes, providing a warm, earthy undertone. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its distinct profile can dominate blends if not balanced properly. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle, natural enhancement.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on germacrene B is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and natural occurrence. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data are less documented, relying on industry-typical practices and assumptions. Known data gaps include precise regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological thresholds.
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 2026-02-12 16:26:16 GMT (p2)