FlavScents AInsights Entry: Lemon Oil Terpeneless (CAS: 68648-39-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Lemon Oil Terpeneless is a natural complex material derived from lemon oil by removing terpenes, which enhances its stability and concentrates its characteristic aroma. It is commonly used in both flavor and fragrance applications. The CAS number for Lemon Oil Terpeneless is 68648-39-5. This material does not have a single IUPAC name as it is a mixture rather than a discrete compound. It is often referenced in industry databases and regulatory documents under its common name.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Lemon Oil Terpeneless is characterized by its intense, fresh, and zesty lemon aroma, which is more stable and less volatile than regular lemon oil due to the removal of terpenes. It provides a strong citrus note with a slightly sweet undertone, making it a popular choice for imparting a clean and refreshing scent in both flavors and fragrances. The material is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a bright and uplifting character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Lemon Oil Terpeneless is derived from the essential oil of lemons (Citrus limon), which is obtained through cold pressing of the fruit's peel. The terpeneless version is produced by removing the terpenes through distillation or solvent extraction, resulting in a more concentrated and stable product. This process enhances its suitability for use in products where a consistent and long-lasting lemon aroma is desired. It qualifies for "natural flavor" designation as it is derived from a natural source and processed to concentrate its aromatic components.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Lemon Oil Terpeneless is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in beverages, confectionery, and baked goods, where a strong and stable lemon flavor is desired. It serves as a primary flavor note, providing a bright and refreshing citrus character. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the product matrix. It is valued for its stability under heat and acidic conditions, making it suitable for a variety of applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, Lemon Oil Terpeneless is used across various product types, including perfumes, household cleaners, and personal care products. It is a key component in citrus fragrance families, providing a top note that is both fresh and invigorating. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations vary, but it is often used at levels of 0.1% to 1% depending on the product type and desired scent profile. Its volatility makes it an excellent choice for top note applications, contributing to the initial burst of freshness in a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

Lemon Oil Terpeneless typically contains high levels of citral, limonene, and linalool, which are responsible for its characteristic lemon aroma. The composition can vary based on the source of the lemon oil and the specific processing methods used. These constituents are known for their strong citrus scent and are crucial for the material's sensory impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, Lemon Oil Terpeneless is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and is assigned an FL number for flavoring purposes. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, it is accepted for use in food and fragrance applications, although specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also permit its use, with some regional variations in regulatory requirements.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Lemon Oil Terpeneless is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications when used within recommended levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety due to its natural origin and history of use. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, but it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, necessitating adherence to IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but occupational exposure should be managed to prevent respiratory irritation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Lemon Oil Terpeneless is valued for its intense and stable lemon aroma, making it a versatile ingredient in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral notes, enhancing the overall freshness of a formulation. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its strong aroma can dominate other components. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where its stability and intensity could provide significant benefits.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on Lemon Oil Terpeneless is well-established, with extensive documentation available from industry and regulatory sources. While industry practices are generally consistent, some variability in composition and regulatory interpretations may exist. Known data gaps are minimal, but ongoing research into its broader applications and safety profiles continues to enhance understanding.

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
• Includes section 5a for complex natural material

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 2026-02-13 15:15:46 GMT (p2)