FlavScents AInsights Entry for (Z)-Musk Pentane (CAS: 14595-54-1)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): (Z)-Musk Pentane
- IUPAC Name: 1-(3,3-dimethylcyclohexyl)pent-1-en-3-one
- CAS Number: 14595-54-1
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: Not clearly reported
- Molecular Formula: C14H24O
- Molecular Weight: 208.34 g/mol
(Z)-Musk pentane is a synthetic musk compound characterized by its cyclohexyl and pentenone functional groups. These groups contribute to its musky odor profile, which is highly valued in fragrance applications. The structure-odor relationship is primarily influenced by the cyclohexyl moiety, which imparts a warm, animalic scent typical of musk compounds.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
(Z)-Musk pentane is known for its musky, animalic odor with a warm and slightly sweet undertone. It is often described as having moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it suitable for use as an impact note in fragrance compositions. The compound does not have a significant taste profile, as it is primarily used for its olfactory properties. Odor thresholds are not clearly reported, but it is typically used in trace amounts due to its potent scent.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
(Z)-Musk pentane is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally. It is produced through chemical synthesis, often involving the cyclization of appropriate precursors to form the cyclohexyl ring, followed by the introduction of the pentenone group. As a synthetic musk, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, which are reserved for compounds derived from natural sources.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
(Z)-Musk pentane is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primary role as a fragrance ingredient. However, in rare cases where a musky note is desired in flavor systems, it may be used at very low concentrations, typically below 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering the flavor profile. Its stability in flavor systems is generally good, with resistance to heat and pH variations, but it may be susceptible to oxidation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, (Z)-musk pentane is utilized across various fragrance families, including oriental and woody compositions. It serves as a base note, providing depth and warmth to the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility is moderate, allowing it to contribute to the fragrance's longevity.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not listed as FEMA GRAS for flavor use; primarily regulated under fragrance safety guidelines.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use; subject to general safety assessments for fragrance use.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Regulatory status varies; not commonly used in flavors, with fragrance use subject to local safety evaluations.
- Latin America: Similar to the US and EU, with fragrance use regulated under general safety standards.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, (Z)-musk pentane is not typically used in flavors, and thus specific ADI or MSDI values are not established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is more relevant, with safety assessments focusing on potential irritation and sensitization. IFRA guidelines provide usage limits to mitigate these risks. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
(Z)-Musk pentane is valued for its ability to impart a warm, musky depth to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other musks and woody notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the scent. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering fragrance. It is often under-utilized in lighter compositions where a subtle musk note is desired.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on (Z)-musk pentane is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data may be limited due to its primary use in fragrances rather than flavors. Industry practices are generally consistent, but formulators should verify specific regulatory requirements for their target markets.
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 2026-06-09 21:11:53 GMT (p2)