FlavScents AInsights Entry for Alpha-Irone (CAS: 79-69-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Alpha-irone is a key compound in the family of irones, known for their violet-like aroma. The IUPAC name for alpha-irone is (3R,3aS,6R,7aS)-3,6-dimethyl-3a,4,5,6,7,7a-hexahydro-1H-inden-5-one. It is registered under the CAS number 79-69-6. While a specific FEMA number is not assigned to alpha-irone, it is often considered within the broader context of irones in flavor and fragrance applications. The molecular formula is C13H20O, with a molecular weight of 192.30 g/mol. Alpha-irone features a cyclohexenone ring, which contributes to its characteristic odor profile, making it a valuable component in perfumery for its floral and woody notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Alpha-irone is renowned for its distinctive violet-like odor, which is both floral and woody. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with a smooth, powdery character. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a natural and elegant floral nuance. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, alpha-irone is typically used in trace amounts due to its potent aroma. Its role in formulations is often as a modifier, enhancing the complexity and depth of floral accords.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Alpha-irone naturally occurs in orris root, derived from the rhizomes of Iris germanica and Iris pallida. The formation of alpha-irone in nature involves the enzymatic degradation of iridals, which are precursors found in the plant. This transformation occurs during the drying and aging process of the rhizomes, which can take several years. The presence of alpha-irone contributes to the designation of orris root extracts as "natural fragrance" materials in perfumery.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, alpha-irone is used sparingly due to its intense aroma. It is primarily employed in floral flavor profiles, such as violet and orris, and can be found in confectionery, beverages, and specialty foods. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 1 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially overwhelming the desired flavor balance. Alpha-irone is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Alpha-irone is a versatile component in the fragrance industry, commonly used in floral, woody, and oriental fragrance families. It serves as a key impact note, providing a rich, violet-like aroma that enhances the overall complexity of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the desired intensity and character. Alpha-irone is considered a middle note, contributing to the heart of the fragrance with moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, alpha-irone is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors, although specific regulatory documentation may not explicitly list it. In the European Union, it falls under the broader category of irones, which are permitted as flavoring substances under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008. The UK follows similar guidelines post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, alpha-irone is used in compliance with local flavor and fragrance regulations, though specific approvals may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR align with international standards, but local regulations should be consulted for specific guidance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Alpha-irone's safety profile is generally favorable, with low toxicity reported in typical use concentrations. For oral exposure, no specific ADI or MSDI values are available, but it is used within industry-accepted limits. Dermal exposure in fragrances is considered safe, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported at typical use levels. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices. 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

Alpha-irone is valued for its ability to impart a natural, floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and woody notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering aroma. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle, elegant floral touch, making it a valuable tool for creating sophisticated scent profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on alpha-irone is well-established, particularly in the context of its sensory properties and applications. While specific regulatory and toxicological data may be limited, industry practices provide a reliable framework for its use. Known data gaps include precise thresholds and comprehensive regulatory listings, which formulators should verify through authoritative sources.

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 14:49:33 GMT (p2)