FlavScents AInsights Entry: Raspberry Ketone (CAS: 5471-51-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Raspberry ketone
• IUPAC Name: 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)butan-2-one
• CAS Number: 5471-51-2
• FEMA Number: 2588
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.008
• Molecular Formula: C10H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 164.20 g/mol

Raspberry ketone is a phenolic compound characterized by a ketone functional group. Its structure is closely related to that of capsaicin and vanillin, contributing to its distinctive aroma. The presence of the hydroxyphenyl group is crucial for its sweet, fruity odor reminiscent of raspberries.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Raspberry ketone is renowned for its sweet, fruity aroma that closely resembles that of fresh raspberries. It is often described as having a berry-like, floral, and slightly woody scent. The compound is used as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a strong and recognizable raspberry character. Its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable aroma even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Raspberry ketone naturally occurs in a variety of fruits, including raspberries, cranberries, and blackberries. It is also found in smaller quantities in other fruits such as kiwis and apples. The compound can be biosynthesized through the enzymatic degradation of certain phenolic precursors in plants. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in "natural flavor" designations, provided it is extracted or synthesized in compliance with regulatory standards.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Raspberry ketone is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in berry and fruit-flavored products. It serves as a key impact note in candies, beverages, and baked goods. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense flavor profiles. The compound is stable under a variety of conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations, making it versatile for different food applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, raspberry ketone is valued for its ability to impart a fruity, sweet note to perfumes and personal care products. It is commonly used in fruity and floral fragrance families, often as a modifier or impact note. Typical concentrations in fragrance formulations range from trace amounts to 0.1%, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 07.008.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in some ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Raspberry ketone is widely accepted for both flavor and fragrance applications, though specific use levels and restrictions may vary by region.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, raspberry ketone has a high margin of safety when used within recommended levels. The compound's ADI and MSDI are not explicitly defined, but it is generally considered safe under typical usage conditions. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is also deemed safe, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, though occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Raspberry ketone is prized for its ability to deliver a true-to-nature raspberry aroma, making it a staple in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other berry and fruit notes, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as excessive concentrations can lead to an overpowering or artificial scent. It is often underutilized in savory applications, where it can add a subtle fruity nuance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on raspberry ketone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are generally documented, some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Known data gaps include specific ADI and MSDI values, which formulators should verify through authoritative sources.

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
• No section 5a required as raspberry ketone is a single compound

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 2026-02-04 12:54:35 GMT (p2)