FlavScents AInsights Entry for Alpha-Ylangene (CAS: 14912-44-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Alpha-Ylangene
• IUPAC Name: (3aR,5aS,9aR,9bS)-3,3,6,9-tetramethyl-3a,4,5,5a,6,7,8,9a,9b-octahydro-1H-benzo[e]indene
• CAS Number: 14912-44-8
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C15H24
• Molecular Weight: 204.35 g/mol

Alpha-ylangene is a sesquiterpene hydrocarbon characterized by its bicyclic structure. The presence of multiple methyl groups contributes to its hydrophobic nature, influencing its volatility and odor profile. The structural configuration of alpha-ylangene is significant in determining its sensory characteristics, often contributing to its role in fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Alpha-ylangene is known for its woody, earthy aroma with subtle spicy undertones. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and a lingering diffusion, making it suitable for use as a background note in complex fragrance compositions. The odor threshold for alpha-ylangene is not clearly reported, but its sensory role is typically as a modifier, enhancing the depth and complexity of the fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Alpha-ylangene is naturally found in several essential oils, including ylang-ylang and patchouli. It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, a common route for sesquiterpene formation. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural fragrance" component, aligning with consumer preferences for natural product formulations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Alpha-ylangene is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primarily woody and earthy aroma, which is more suited to fragrance than flavor. However, when used, it may contribute to the complexity of certain savory or herbal flavor profiles. Typical use levels in flavors are not well-documented, but industry practices suggest it is used sparingly, often below 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering other flavor notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrances, alpha-ylangene is valued for its ability to impart a woody, earthy character. It is commonly used in chypre and oriental fragrance families, where it serves as a base note, providing longevity and depth. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations vary, but it is often used at levels of 0.1% to 1% depending on the desired intensity and character of the final product.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Alpha-ylangene does not have a specific FEMA GRAS status for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is generally accepted under the guidelines of the International Fragrance Association (IFRA).
• European Union: Not explicitly listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is subject to IFRA standards.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Regulatory status varies; generally accepted in fragrances but not commonly used in flavors.
• Latin America: Similar to the US and EU, with no specific restrictions reported for fragrance use.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Alpha-ylangene's safety profile is primarily evaluated in the context of fragrance use. Dermal exposure is considered low risk, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization at typical use levels. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility. Oral exposure data is limited, reflecting its rare use in flavors. Overall, the risk profile is more relevant to fragrance applications, where it is considered safe under current IFRA guidelines.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Alpha-ylangene is valued for its ability to enhance the complexity and depth of fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other woody and spicy notes, providing a grounding effect. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can dominate a blend. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a natural, earthy character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on alpha-ylangene is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals for flavor use and detailed toxicological data. Industry practices are generally consistent, but further research could enhance understanding of its full potential in both flavor and fragrance applications.

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 09:20:47 GMT (p2)