FlavScents AInsights Entry for Tangeretin (CAS: 481-53-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Tangeretin
• IUPAC Name: 4′,5,6,7,8-Pentamethoxyflavone
• CAS Number: 481-53-8
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL Number: 09.034
• Molecular Formula: C20H20O7
• Molecular Weight: 372.37 g/mol

Tangeretin is a polymethoxylated flavone, characterized by its five methoxy groups attached to the flavone backbone. This structure contributes to its distinctive properties and potential bioactivity. The presence of methoxy groups is significant for its odor profile and potential antioxidant activity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Tangeretin is known for its subtle citrus aroma, often described as sweet and slightly tangy. It is not typically used as a primary odorant but rather as a modifier to enhance citrus notes in flavor and fragrance compositions. The intensity is moderate, providing a nuanced background note that supports the overall profile without dominating it. Specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its role is primarily as a background realism enhancer in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Tangeretin is naturally found in the peels of citrus fruits, particularly tangerines and oranges. It is a secondary metabolite produced during the fruit's growth and ripening stages. Its presence in citrus peels makes it relevant for natural flavor and fragrance designations, especially in products aiming to highlight natural citrus profiles.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Tangeretin is utilized in flavor systems to enhance citrus profiles, particularly in beverages, confectionery, and baked goods. It acts as a functional modifier, providing depth and authenticity to citrus flavors. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.5 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to light.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, tangeretin is used to impart a subtle citrus note, often in colognes, perfumes, and personal care products. It serves as a trace realism enhancer, contributing to the top notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentrations are low, often less than 0.1%, due to its potent aroma. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the top notes, with limited impact on the middle or base notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA; used under general flavoring principles.
• European Union: Recognized under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number 09.034.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Limited specific data; generally follows international flavoring guidelines.
• Latin America: Usage aligns with international standards, though specific national regulations may vary.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Tangeretin's safety profile is primarily evaluated through its natural occurrence in citrus peels. Oral exposure through flavor use is considered safe at typical consumption levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is generally low-risk, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility in typical fragrance applications. Overall, the risk profile does not significantly differ between food and fragrance uses.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Tangeretin is valued for its ability to enhance and authenticate citrus profiles in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus components like limonene and citral. Formulators should be cautious of its stability under heat and light, which can lead to degradation. It is often under-utilized due to its subtlety, but when used judiciously, it can significantly enhance product authenticity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on tangeretin is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and natural occurrence. However, specific sensory thresholds and detailed regulatory approvals are less documented, relying on general industry practices and assumptions. Known data gaps include comprehensive toxicological evaluations and specific regional regulatory nuances.

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 13:19:22 GMT (p2)