FlavScents AInsights Entry for Myristicin (CAS: 607-91-0)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Myristicin
- IUPAC Name: 5-allyl-1-methoxy-2,3-dihydroxybenzene
- CAS Number: 607-91-0
- FEMA Number: 2762
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.003
- Molecular Formula: C11H12O3
- Molecular Weight: 192.21 g/mol
Myristicin is a naturally occurring phenylpropene, a type of aromatic compound that is found in various essential oils. It is characterized by its methoxy and allyl functional groups, which contribute to its distinct odor profile. The presence of these functional groups is crucial for its sensory attributes, influencing both its olfactory and gustatory properties.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Myristicin is known for its warm, spicy, and slightly woody aroma, often described as reminiscent of nutmeg. It has a moderate intensity and a notable diffusion, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations. The compound's taste is similarly warm and spicy, contributing to its role as an impact note in flavor systems. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, myristicin is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent sensory characteristics.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Myristicin is predominantly found in the essential oil of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), but it is also present in other spices such as parsley and dill. It is biosynthesized in plants through the shikimic acid pathway, which is responsible for the formation of many aromatic compounds. Myristicin's presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in products labeled as "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance," depending on the extraction and processing methods employed.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, myristicin is used to impart warm, spicy notes, particularly in spice blends, baked goods, and beverages. It serves as an impact note, enhancing the overall complexity and authenticity of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the specific application and desired intensity. Myristicin is relatively stable under typical processing conditions, though it may degrade under prolonged exposure to high heat or acidic environments.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Myristicin is utilized in fragrance formulations for its warm, spicy, and slightly woody aroma. It is commonly found in oriental and spicy fragrance families, contributing as a trace realism or modifier note. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance products are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Myristicin's volatility allows it to function primarily as a middle note, providing a bridge between top and base notes in complex fragrance compositions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
United States
- Flavor Use: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA.
- Fragrance Use: No specific restrictions noted.
European Union
- Flavor Use: Permitted under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
- Fragrance Use: Subject to IFRA standards.
United Kingdom
- Post-Brexit regulations align closely with EU standards.
Asia
- Japan: Permitted for use in flavors and fragrances.
- China: Subject to national food safety standards.
- ASEAN: Generally permitted, but specific regulations may vary.
Latin America
- Brazil/MERCOSUR: Permitted with adherence to regional guidelines.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Oral Exposure
Myristicin has a low acute toxicity profile, with an estimated ADI not clearly reported. It is generally considered safe at typical flavor use levels, but high doses can lead to psychoactive effects.
Dermal Exposure
In fragrance applications, myristicin is not a primary sensitizer but should be used in accordance with IFRA guidelines to minimize irritation risks.
Inhalation Exposure
Volatility considerations suggest minimal risk under normal use conditions, though occupational exposure should be managed with appropriate ventilation.
Risk profiles differ between food and fragrance applications, primarily due to differences in exposure routes and concentrations.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Myristicin is valued for its ability to impart warm, spicy notes that enhance the complexity of both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other spice-derived compounds, such as eugenol and cinnamaldehyde. Formulators should be cautious of its potent sensory impact, as overuse can lead to overpowering or unbalanced profiles. It is often under-utilized in low concentrations where its subtlety can enhance background realism.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on myristicin is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory characteristics and natural occurrence. Industry practices are generally consistent, though specific regulatory and safety data may vary by region. Known data gaps include precise ADI values and comprehensive sensory thresholds.
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 2026-08-11 11:51:30 GMT (p2)