AInsights Entry for Sabina Ketone (CAS: 513-20-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Sabina ketone, also known by its IUPAC name as 4-methyl-1-(propan-2-ylidene)cyclohexan-1-one, is a chemical compound with the CAS number 513-20-2. It is identified by the FEMA number 3008. The molecular formula of sabina ketone is C10H16O, and it has a molecular weight of 152.23 g/mol. This compound features a cyclohexanone structure with a methyl and an isopropylidene group, contributing to its distinct odor profile. The presence of the ketone functional group is significant for its odor characteristics, often described as camphoraceous and woody.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Sabina ketone is characterized by a camphoraceous, woody odor with moderate intensity and diffusion. It is often used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a fresh, clean scent reminiscent of pine and camphor. The odor threshold for sabina ketone is not well-documented, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma. In flavor applications, it can impart a slightly minty, herbal note, although its use is more common in fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Sabina ketone is naturally found in the essential oils of certain coniferous trees, such as Juniperus sabina, from which it derives its name. It can also be formed through the oxidation of related terpenes. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be classified under "natural fragrance" designations when derived from these botanical origins. The compound's formation is typically associated with the enzymatic degradation of terpenes in the plant material.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, sabina ketone is used sparingly due to its strong camphoraceous note. It is primarily utilized in minty or herbal flavor profiles, where it acts as a modifier to enhance freshness. Typical use levels in food and beverages are low, often ranging from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity. Sabina ketone is stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under high heat or acidic environments, which should be considered during formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Sabina ketone is widely used in the fragrance industry, particularly in woody and fresh fragrance families. It serves as a top note, providing a crisp, clean scent that enhances the overall freshness of a composition. Typical concentration ranges in fragrances are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect. Its volatility makes it suitable for use in products like colognes, air fresheners, and personal care items.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, sabina ketone is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, regulatory status may vary, with Japan and China having specific guidelines for its use in flavors and fragrances. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR have their own regulatory frameworks, often aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, sabina ketone is considered safe at low concentrations typical in flavor applications, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is generally safe, but it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, necessitating adherence to IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant in occupational settings, where adequate ventilation and protective measures should be in place to minimize risks. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with safety contingent on concentration and exposure duration.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Sabina ketone is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, woody note, making it a versatile component in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other terpenes and minty compounds, enhancing their freshness. Formulators should be cautious of its strong odor, which can easily dominate a blend if overused. It is often under-utilized in flavor applications due to its potent aroma, but when used judiciously, it can add a unique character to herbal and minty profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on sabina ketone is well-established, particularly in fragrance applications. However, there are gaps in specific sensory thresholds and detailed toxicological data, which are often industry-typical but undocumented. Regulatory information is generally clear, though regional variations may exist. Formulators should verify specific use levels and safety guidelines based on the latest industry standards and regulatory updates.

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 13:18:53 GMT (p2)