FlavScents AInsights Entry for Serenolide (CAS: 477218-42-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Serenolide
• IUPAC Name: Not available
• CAS Number: 477218-42-1
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C14H24O2
• Molecular Weight: 224.34 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Serenolide is a macrocyclic lactone, which is a class of compounds known for their musky odors. The presence of the lactone ring is crucial for its olfactory properties, contributing to its characteristic scent profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Serenolide is characterized by a musky odor with a subtle floral undertone. It is often described as having a soft, sweet, and powdery scent that is both persistent and diffusive. The compound is typically used as a background note to enhance the overall complexity of a fragrance composition. Specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its impact is generally considered moderate, providing a smooth and rounded musk note.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Serenolide does not occur naturally and is synthesized for use in fragrance applications. The compound is typically produced through chemical synthesis, involving the formation of the macrocyclic lactone ring. Its synthetic nature means it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Serenolide is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primary association with fragrance. However, when used, it can impart a subtle musk note to certain flavor profiles, particularly in confectionery or dairy products. Typical use levels in flavors are not well-documented, but industry estimates suggest low ppm levels, often below 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering the flavor profile. Its stability in flavor systems is generally good, with resistance to heat and pH variations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrances, serenolide is valued for its musky aroma and is used across various fragrance families, including floral, oriental, and woody compositions. It serves as a base note, providing longevity and depth to the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are between 0.1% and 1%, depending on the desired intensity. Serenolide's volatility is moderate, contributing to its role as a middle to base note in fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Serenolide is not specifically listed by FEMA as GRAS for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is subject to general safety assessments.
• European Union: Not explicitly listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use. Fragrance use is regulated under general safety guidelines.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Specific regulatory information for Japan, China, and ASEAN countries is limited; general safety assessments apply.
• Latin America: Regulatory status in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries is not clearly documented; harmonized safety assessments are typically applied.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Serenolide is not commonly used in food, and specific ADI or MSDI values are not available. General safety assessments apply.
• Dermal Exposure: Considered safe for use in fragrances at typical concentrations. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific restrictions.
• Inhalation Exposure: No specific occupational exposure limits are documented. General safety practices for handling fragrance compounds apply.

Risk profiles for serenolide do not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications, with fragrance use being more prevalent.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Serenolide is prized for its ability to impart a soft, musky note that enhances the depth and complexity of fragrance compositions. It blends well with floral and woody notes, providing a smooth transition between top and base notes. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its musk character can dominate if not balanced properly. It is often under-utilized in flavor applications due to its primary association with fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on serenolide is well-established in the context of fragrance use, with industry practices providing a reliable framework for its application. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, particularly for flavor use. Industry-typical practices often guide its application in the absence of explicit regulatory guidance.

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 2026-05-13 06:12:12 GMT (p2)