FlavScents AInsights Entry for Alpha-Damascone (CAS: 43052-87-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Alpha-damascone is a key aroma compound used extensively in the flavor and fragrance industries. Its IUPAC name is (E)-1-(2,6,6-Trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-1-yl)-2-buten-1-one. The CAS number for alpha-damascone is 43052-87-5. It is also identified by FEMA number 2367. The molecular formula is C13H20O, with a molecular weight of 192.30 g/mol. Alpha-damascone contains a cyclohexene ring with a ketone functional group, contributing to its potent and distinctive odor profile, which is crucial for its application in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Alpha-damascone is renowned for its powerful and complex odor, characterized by fruity, floral, and woody notes. It is often described as having a scent reminiscent of rose, apple, and plum, with a subtle tobacco nuance. The intensity of its aroma is high, making it an impactful note in formulations. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely reported, its strong diffusion and persistence make it a valuable component for creating depth and character in both flavor and fragrance compositions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Alpha-damascone occurs naturally in various plant species, including roses and certain fruits. It is formed through the degradation of carotenoids, a process that can occur during the ripening of fruits or the aging of flowers. This compound is significant for the "natural flavor" designation, as it can be derived from natural sources through extraction and isolation processes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In the flavor industry, alpha-damascone is used to impart fruity and floral notes to a variety of products, including beverages, confectionery, and baked goods. It serves as an impact note, providing a distinctive character that enhances the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Alpha-damascone is relatively stable under typical food processing conditions, although it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Alpha-damascone is a versatile ingredient in the fragrance industry, used across various fragrance families such as floral, fruity, and chypre. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its volatility allows it to provide a lasting impression without overwhelming other components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, alpha-damascone is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for its use in flavors and fragrances, while ASEAN countries generally align with international standards. In Latin America, regulatory frameworks vary, with Brazil and MERCOSUR countries having their own specific requirements.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Alpha-damascone's safety profile is well-documented for both oral and dermal exposures. For oral exposure, it is considered safe at typical use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by relevant authorities. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, although IFRA provides guidelines to prevent sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling. 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

Alpha-damascone is valued for its ability to enhance and modify both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, providing complexity and depth. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle yet impactful aroma profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on alpha-damascone is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented guidelines, although some regional regulatory nuances may exist. Known data gaps are minimal, with ongoing research focusing on expanding its applications and understanding its sensory interactions.

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 2026-06-30 13:38:51 GMT (p2)