FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E)-anethol (CAS: 4180-23-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Anethole, (E)-anethol
• IUPAC Name: 1-Methoxy-4-(prop-1-en-1-yl)benzene
• CAS Number: 4180-23-8
• FEMA Number: 2086
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.013
• Molecular Formula: C10H12O
• Molecular Weight: 148.20 g/mol

(E)-anethol is a phenylpropene, a type of aromatic compound that is structurally related to the phenylpropanoids. It features a methoxy group and a propenyl group attached to a benzene ring, which contributes to its sweet, anise-like odor. The presence of the methoxy group is crucial for its characteristic scent, making it a valuable compound in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(E)-anethol is known for its sweet, anise-like aroma, often described as licorice-like with a hint of spice. It is a high-impact compound with a strong diffusion and moderate intensity. The odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective even at low concentrations. In flavor applications, it serves as an impact note, providing a distinct anise character that can enhance the overall profile of a formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(E)-anethol is naturally found in essential oils of anise (Pimpinella anisum), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), and star anise (Illicium verum). It is biosynthesized in plants through the shikimic acid pathway, which is common for aromatic compounds. Its presence in these plants makes it a candidate for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction method used.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(E)-anethol is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in confectionery, beverages, and baked goods. It is a key component in licorice and anise-flavored products. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense applications. It is relatively stable under heat but can oxidize over time, which may affect its flavor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In perfumery, (E)-anethol is used in various fragrance families, including oriental and gourmand. It acts as a modifier and impact note, providing a sweet, spicy character. Typical concentrations in fragrance formulations range from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity. It contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 02.013.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved in Japan and China for flavor use, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized assumptions.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (E)-anethol is considered safe within the established ADI limits. It has a low potential for dermal irritation and sensitization, making it suitable for fragrance use. Inhalation exposure is generally low risk due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be monitored. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(E)-anethol is valued for its distinctive anise flavor and aroma, which can enhance a wide range of products. It synergizes well with other sweet and spicy notes, such as vanilla and cinnamon. Formulators should be cautious of its strong impact, as it can easily dominate a blend if overused. It is often underutilized in savory applications, where it can add complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (E)-anethol is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Overall, the confidence in the data quality is high, with minimal gaps.

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 2026-10-23 20:49:36 GMT (p2)