FlavScents AInsights Entry for Buchu Mercaptan (CAS: 38462-22-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Buchu Mercaptan
• IUPAC Name: 2-Methyl-2-propanethiol
• CAS Number: 38462-22-5
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C4H10S
• Molecular Weight: 90.19 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Buchu mercaptan is characterized by the presence of a thiol group, which is known for imparting strong, sulfurous odors. This functional group is crucial for its distinctive sensory properties, often described as reminiscent of blackcurrant or cat urine, contributing to its use in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Buchu mercaptan is noted for its potent and distinctive odor profile, often described as sulfurous with nuances of blackcurrant, reminiscent of cat urine. Its intensity is high, and it is typically used in trace amounts due to its powerful impact. The compound serves as an impact note in flavor and fragrance compositions, providing a unique character that can enhance the realism of certain profiles, particularly in blackcurrant and tropical fruit flavors.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Buchu mercaptan is naturally found in the essential oils of buchu plants, particularly in Agathosma betulina and Agathosma crenulata. These plants are native to South Africa and are traditionally used for their aromatic properties. The compound is formed through the enzymatic degradation of precursor molecules within the plant. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Buchu mercaptan is primarily used in flavor formulations to impart a blackcurrant-like note. It is commonly employed in fruit flavors, particularly those mimicking blackcurrant, passion fruit, and other tropical fruits. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products are extremely low, often in the range of 0.1 to 1 ppm, due to its high potency. Stability considerations include sensitivity to oxidation, which can alter its sensory characteristics, and it is generally stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, buchu mercaptan is used to provide a unique sulfurous note that can enhance the realism of certain compositions. It is often found in niche perfumery, where its distinctive character is valued. Typical concentration ranges are very low, often less than 0.1% in the final product, due to its strong odor. It contributes primarily to the top notes of a fragrance, given its high volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Buchu mercaptan is not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA, and its use in flavors is subject to general safety evaluations.
• European Union: Under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, it may be used in flavors, provided it meets safety requirements.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the UK aligns closely with EU regulations regarding flavoring substances.
• Asia: Specific regulations in countries like Japan and China may vary, and formulators should consult local guidelines.
• Latin America: Regulatory frameworks in countries such as Brazil and MERCOSUR members may have specific requirements for its use.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data on acceptable daily intake (ADI) or threshold of toxicological concern (TTC) specific to buchu mercaptan is not clearly reported. Industry practice suggests using it at very low levels to minimize exposure.
• Dermal Exposure: As a fragrance component, it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use levels.
• Inhalation Exposure: Given its volatility, inhalation exposure is possible, particularly in occupational settings. Proper ventilation and protective measures are recommended.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Buchu mercaptan is valued for its ability to impart a unique blackcurrant-like note, making it a powerful tool in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and tropical notes but can easily overpower a composition if not used judiciously. Common pitfalls include overuse, leading to an undesirable sulfurous character. It is often under-utilized due to its potent nature and the challenges in balancing its impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on buchu mercaptan is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and natural occurrence. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and safety evaluations. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological assessments and comprehensive regulatory listings across all 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 2026-03-27 18:53:22 GMT (p2)