FlavScents AInsights Entry for Cyclotene (CAS: 765-70-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Cyclotene, also known as maltol, is a flavor and fragrance compound with the IUPAC name 2H-Pyran-2-one, 3-hydroxy-2-methyl-. It is identified by the CAS number 765-70-8. The FEMA number for cyclotene is 3265. Other identifiers include the FL number 07.008 and CoE number 132. Cyclotene has a molecular formula of C6H6O3 and a molecular weight of 126.11 g/mol. The compound features a pyranone ring with a hydroxyl group, contributing to its sweet, caramel-like odor, which is significant in flavor applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Cyclotene is characterized by its sweet, caramel-like odor with nuances of maple and burnt sugar. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity and a warm, comforting character. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a rich, sweet background that enhances the overall sensory experience. The taste threshold for cyclotene is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Cyclotene naturally occurs in a variety of foods, including roasted coffee, chicory, and certain types of bread. It is also formed during the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that occurs during the cooking process, contributing to the complex flavors of baked and roasted foods. Cyclotene's presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" in many regulatory contexts.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Cyclotene is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in categories such as bakery, confectionery, and dairy products. It serves as a key component in creating caramel, maple, and brown sugar flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor profiles. Cyclotene is stable under typical processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations, but may degrade under extreme conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, cyclotene is utilized in gourmand and sweet fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, adding depth and warmth to compositions. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts up to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity. Cyclotene contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance, offering a lasting sweet aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, cyclotene 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 the FL number 07.008. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, cyclotene is approved for use in Japan and China, with specific guidelines varying by country. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR also permit its use, aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Cyclotene is considered safe for oral exposure at typical use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory bodies. For dermal exposure, it is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing, making it suitable for use in personal care products. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Cyclotene is valued for its ability to impart a rich, sweet character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other sweet and creamy notes, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as excessive concentrations can lead to an overpowering sweetness. It is often under-utilized in savory applications, where it can add depth and complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on cyclotene is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented guidelines, though some regional regulatory nuances may exist. No significant data gaps or ambiguities are noted, ensuring high confidence in its safety and efficacy.

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 2026-03-27 10:58:49 GMT (p2)