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

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Alpha-Irone
• IUPAC Name: (3R,3aS,6R,7S,8aR)-3,6,8a-Trimethyl-1,2,3,3a,4,5,6,7-octahydroazulen-6-ol
• CAS Number: 79-69-6
• FEMA Number: 2593
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.011
• Molecular Formula: C14H22O
• Molecular Weight: 206.33 g/mol

Alpha-Irone is a monocyclic sesquiterpenoid with a characteristic ionone structure, contributing to its distinctive violet-like odor. The presence of a hydroxyl group and a conjugated double bond system in its structure is crucial for its olfactory properties, enhancing its floral and woody notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Alpha-Irone is renowned for its violet-like, floral, and woody aroma, often described as having a powdery and sweet character. It is a high-impact fragrance material with moderate diffusion and a lingering presence. The odor threshold for alpha-irone is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. It serves as an impact note in perfumery, providing depth and complexity to floral compositions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Alpha-Irone is naturally found in orris root oil, derived from the rhizomes of Iris germanica and Iris pallida. It is formed through the oxidative degradation of carotenoids, a process that occurs during the drying and aging of the rhizomes. This compound is significant for its contribution to the "natural fragrance" designation, as it is a key component in the natural aroma profile of orris root.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Alpha-Irone is used in flavor formulations to impart floral and woody notes, particularly in violet and orris flavors. It is commonly applied in confectionery, beverages, and fine bakery wares. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially overwhelming the desired flavor profile. Alpha-Irone is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or oxidative environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In perfumery, alpha-irone is a valuable component in floral, woody, and oriental fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the overall complexity and depth of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity. Alpha-Irone contributes primarily to the middle and base notes due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 09.011.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Alpha-Irone is widely accepted across major markets, with harmonized assumptions in place for its use in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, alpha-irone is considered safe within the established FEMA GRAS limits, with no specific ADI or MSDI reported. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, as per IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Alpha-Irone is prized for its ability to impart a natural violet character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and woody notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the formulation. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering scent or flavor. It is often under-utilized in non-floral applications, where it can add unexpected depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on alpha-irone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific use levels may vary based on formulation goals. Some data gaps exist in the precise quantification of its sensory thresholds, but these do not significantly impact its application.

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 2026-06-30 13:37:26 GMT (p2)