FlavScents AInsights Entry for Dextro-Carvone (CAS: 2244-16-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Dextro-carvone, (R)-Carvone
• IUPAC Name: (R)-5-Isopropenyl-2-methylcyclohex-2-en-1-one
• CAS Number: 2244-16-8
• FEMA Number: 2245
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.146
• Molecular Formula: C10H14O
• Molecular Weight: 150.22 g/mol

Dextro-carvone is a monoterpenoid ketone characterized by its cyclohexenone structure with an isopropenyl group. The presence of the ketone functional group is crucial for its minty aroma, which is a key characteristic of this compound.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Dextro-carvone is renowned for its distinctive minty, cooling odor, reminiscent of spearmint. It exhibits moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it a popular choice for imparting freshness in both flavors and fragrances. The compound is primarily used as an impact note due to its strong character. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, it is known to be effective at low concentrations, typical of monoterpenes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Dextro-carvone naturally occurs in several essential oils, most notably in spearmint oil, where it is a major constituent. It is biosynthesized in plants via the mevalonate pathway, leading to the formation of monoterpenes. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in products labeled as containing "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance."

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

4. Use in Flavors

Dextro-carvone is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in mint-flavored products such as chewing gum, toothpaste, and confectionery. It serves as a primary flavoring agent due to its strong minty profile. Typical use levels in finished products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially overpowering other flavor notes. It is 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

In the fragrance industry, dextro-carvone is utilized in a variety of product types, including personal care products, household cleaners, and air fresheners. It contributes to the top notes of fragrance compositions, providing a fresh, minty aroma. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for top note applications, where it imparts an initial burst of freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 07.146.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized regulations.

Explicit approvals exist in major markets, though specific use levels may vary. Formulators should verify compliance with local regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, dextro-carvone is considered safe at typical use levels, with a high margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be in place to prevent overexposure during manufacturing.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Dextro-carvone is valued for its potent minty aroma, making it a staple in mint-flavored and fragranced products. It synergizes well with other minty and herbal notes but can dominate if overused. Formulators should balance its intensity with complementary ingredients to achieve the desired sensory profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on dextro-carvone is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. While industry practices are generally consistent, formulators should remain aware of regional regulatory nuances and emerging research.

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 08:58:40 GMT (p2)