FlavScents AInsights Entry for Naringen (CAS: 14259-46-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Naringen
• IUPAC Name: (2S)-4′,5,7-Trihydroxyflavanone
• CAS Number: 14259-46-2
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not applicable
• Molecular Formula: C15H12O5
• Molecular Weight: 272.25 g/mol

Naringen is a flavonoid compound characterized by its three hydroxyl groups, which contribute to its antioxidant properties. Its structure is significant in determining its sensory attributes, particularly its bitter taste profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Naringen is primarily recognized for its bitter taste, which is a defining characteristic in citrus fruits, particularly grapefruits. The intensity of its bitterness can vary depending on concentration and the presence of other compounds. It is not typically associated with a distinct odor but can influence the overall flavor profile of a product by adding complexity and depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Naringen is naturally found in citrus fruits, especially grapefruits, and to a lesser extent in oranges and lemons. It is biosynthesized in plants through the flavonoid pathway, involving the conversion of phenylalanine to naringenin chalcone, which is then converted to naringen. Its presence in fruits contributes to their classification as "natural flavors" in food products.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Naringen is used in flavor formulations primarily to impart bitterness, which can enhance the authenticity of citrus flavors. It is commonly used in beverages, confectionery, and certain savory products. Typical use levels in finished products range from 10 to 100 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering bitterness. Naringen is stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to light.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Naringen is not commonly used in fragrance formulations due to its lack of a distinct odor. However, its presence in natural citrus extracts can contribute to the overall authenticity and complexity of citrus fragrance profiles. It does not play a significant role in volatility or fragrance layering.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Naringen is not specifically listed as GRAS by FEMA but is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
• European Union: Regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; specific FL number not assigned.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: In Japan and China, naringen is permitted in food products with no specific restrictions noted.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in food applications, with Brazil and MERCOSUR countries aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Naringen is considered safe for consumption at typical dietary levels. No specific ADI or MSDI has been established, but it is generally recognized as safe based on historical consumption data.
• Dermal Exposure: Not typically relevant for fragrance use; no significant irritation or sensitization data available.
• Inhalation Exposure: Not applicable due to its non-volatile nature.

The risk profile for naringen does not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications, primarily due to its limited use in fragrances.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Naringen is valued for its ability to impart a natural bitterness to citrus flavors, enhancing authenticity. It synergizes well with other citrus compounds, such as limonene and citral. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to an undesirable bitterness. It is often underutilized in non-citrus applications where a hint of bitterness could add complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on naringen is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and natural occurrence. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, relying on general safety assumptions. Industry practices are consistent with historical use, though some regional regulatory nuances may exist.

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 2026-02-13 16:12:37 GMT (p2)