FlavScents AInsights Entry for Laevo-beta-pinene (CAS: 18172-67-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Laevo-beta-pinene, β-pinene
• IUPAC Name: (1S,5S)-6,6-dimethyl-2-methylidenebicyclo[3.1.1]heptane
• CAS Number: 18172-67-3
• FEMA Number: 2903
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.011
• Molecular Formula: C10H16
• Molecular Weight: 136.24 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure-Odor Relevance: Laevo-beta-pinene is a bicyclic monoterpene with a characteristic pinene structure, contributing to its fresh, woody, and pine-like odor. The presence of the double bond in the bicyclic structure is crucial for its olfactory properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Laevo-beta-pinene is known for its fresh, woody, and pine-like aroma, often described as resinous and slightly spicy. It is a high-impact odorant with moderate diffusion and intensity. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a natural and fresh character. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, it is recognized for its ability to enhance the freshness and complexity of both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Laevo-beta-pinene is naturally found in a variety of essential oils, including those from pine trees, rosemary, and eucalyptus. It is biosynthesized in plants via the mevalonate pathway, where it serves as a precursor to other terpenes and terpenoids. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations, aligning with consumer preferences for natural products.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Laevo-beta-pinene is utilized in flavor formulations to impart a fresh, pine-like note, often used in mint, citrus, and herbal flavor profiles. It acts as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the overall freshness and complexity of the flavor system. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 10 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application. It is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under high heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, laevo-beta-pinene is a versatile component used across various fragrance families, including woody, fresh, and herbal compositions. It serves as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness and realism. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts up to 5%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its volatility contributes to its role as a top note, offering a fresh and uplifting aroma.

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 number 02.011.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific regulations varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized assumptions across the region.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Laevo-beta-pinene is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances within established guidelines. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety when used at typical flavor concentrations. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant for occupational settings, where adequate ventilation and protective measures are recommended. 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

Laevo-beta-pinene is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, natural character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other terpenes and citrus notes, enhancing the overall complexity and appeal of the formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or harsh aroma. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle, natural freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on laevo-beta-pinene is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are generally consistent, though some undocumented variations exist in use levels and applications. Known data gaps include specific sensory thresholds and detailed regulatory nuances in certain regions.

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 2026-09-28 11:46:29 GMT (p2)