FlavScents AInsights Entry for Amber Naphthofuran (CAS: 3738-00-9)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Amber naphthofuran is a synthetic aromatic compound known for its unique scent profile. The IUPAC name for amber naphthofuran is 2,3-dihydro-1-benzofuran. It is registered under the CAS number 3738-00-9. While it does not have a FEMA number, it is recognized in various fragrance and flavor databases. The molecular formula of amber naphthofuran is C10H10O, with a molecular weight of 146.19 g/mol. The compound features a furan ring, which is significant for its odor characteristics, contributing to its warm, woody, and amber-like scent.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Amber naphthofuran is characterized by its warm, woody, and amber-like aroma, often described as having a sweet, balsamic undertone. It is used primarily as a base note in perfumery, providing depth and longevity to fragrance compositions. The intensity of its odor is moderate, making it suitable for both subtle and more pronounced applications. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, it is typically used in small concentrations due to its potent scent profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Amber naphthofuran is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally. It is typically produced through chemical synthesis involving the cyclization of appropriate precursors. As a synthetic material, 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
Amber naphthofuran is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primary role in fragrance. However, when used, it can impart a subtle woody and amber-like note to certain flavor profiles, particularly in confectionery and beverage applications. Typical use levels in flavors are low, often below 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering the overall flavor profile. It is stable under a variety of conditions, including heat and pH variations, making it a versatile component in flavor formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, amber naphthofuran is valued for its warm, woody, and amber-like scent, making it a popular choice in oriental and woody fragrance families. It serves as a base note, providing depth and longevity to perfumes and other scented products. Typical concentration ranges in fragrances vary from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its moderate volatility allows it to contribute to the middle and base notes of a fragrance composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, amber naphthofuran is not specifically listed under FEMA GRAS but is used in compliance with general safety guidelines. In the European Union, it is subject to the regulations outlined in Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008, although it does not have a specific FL number. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom aligns with the EU post-Brexit, with no significant divergences reported. In Asia, including Japan and China, and in Latin America, such as Brazil and MERCOSUR, amber naphthofuran is used in accordance with local regulations, which generally follow international safety standards.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Amber naphthofuran's safety profile is primarily evaluated through dermal and inhalation exposure, given its predominant use in fragrances. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization at typical use levels. Oral exposure is limited due to its minimal use in flavors. Inhalation exposure is considered safe under normal use conditions, although occupational exposure should be managed with appropriate ventilation and protective measures.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Amber naphthofuran is prized for its ability to impart a warm, woody, and amber-like character to fragrance compositions. It blends well with other woody and oriental notes, enhancing the overall depth and complexity of a fragrance. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering scent. It is often under-utilized in flavor applications, where its subtle woody notes can add a unique dimension to certain profiles.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on amber naphthofuran is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. Regulatory and safety information is consistent with industry standards, although specific flavor use data is less documented. There are no significant data gaps, but formulators should verify regulatory compliance in specific regions.
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 2026-02-06 20:23:50 GMT (p2)
