FlavScents AInsights Entry for Isoambrettolide (CAS: 28645-51-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Isoambrettolide
• IUPAC Name: 1-(3,3-dimethylcyclohexyl)ethanone
• CAS Number: 28645-51-4
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C16H28O2
• Molecular Weight: 252.39 g/mol

Isoambrettolide is a macrocyclic lactone known for its musky odor profile. The compound's structure includes a large ring with ester functional groups, which contribute to its characteristic scent. The presence of the cyclohexyl group adds to its stability and odor profile, making it a valuable ingredient in fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Isoambrettolide is renowned for its musky, sweet, and slightly woody odor. It is often described as having a warm and rich scent with moderate intensity and good diffusion properties. The compound is typically used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing depth and longevity. Odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its sensory role is primarily as a background realism enhancer in complex fragrance blends.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Isoambrettolide does not occur naturally and is synthesized for use in fragrances. It is typically produced through chemical synthesis involving the cyclization of precursor compounds. The synthetic nature of isoambrettolide means it does not qualify for "natural fragrance" designation under most regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Isoambrettolide is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primary association with fragrance. However, when used, it can impart a subtle muskiness to flavor profiles, particularly in luxury or exotic food products. Typical use levels in flavors are not well-documented, but industry estimates suggest usage at trace levels, often below 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering other flavor notes. Its stability under heat and varying pH conditions makes it a versatile component in flavor systems.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Isoambrettolide is widely used in the fragrance industry, particularly in the creation of musk accords. It is a key component in many fragrance families, including oriental and woody compositions. Its functional role is often as a base note, providing longevity and depth. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are between 0.1% and 1%, depending on the desired intensity and character. Isoambrettolide's volatility is moderate, contributing to its role as a middle to base note in fragrance compositions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Isoambrettolide is not specifically listed by FEMA as GRAS for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is not restricted by the FDA.
• European Union: Under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, isoambrettolide is not listed for flavor use. It is used in fragrances without specific restrictions.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the regulatory status aligns with the EU for fragrance use.
• Asia: In Japan and China, isoambrettolide is used in fragrances with no specific restrictions noted.
• Latin America: Usage in fragrances is generally accepted, with no specific restrictions documented.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Isoambrettolide is considered safe for use in fragrances with typical exposure routes being dermal and inhalation. Dermal exposure studies indicate low irritation and sensitization potential, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is considered safe under normal use conditions in consumer products. There is limited data on oral exposure due to its primary use in fragrances, but it is not typically used in food applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Isoambrettolide is valued for its ability to impart a musky depth to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with floral and woody notes, enhancing the overall complexity and longevity of the scent. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can dominate a fragrance blend. It is often under-used in formulations seeking a subtle musk character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on isoambrettolide is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in documented usage levels in flavors and specific regulatory approvals for flavor use. Industry practices often guide its application in fragrances, with some reliance on informed estimates for concentration ranges.

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 20:30:01 GMT (p2)