FlavScents AInsights Entry for (Z)-beta-farnesene (CAS: 28973-97-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (Z)-beta-farnesene
• IUPAC Name: (3Z,6E)-3,7,11-trimethyl-1,3,6,10-dodecatetraene
• CAS Number: 28973-97-9
• FEMA Number: Data not found
• Other Identifiers: FL number not clearly reported; CoE number not clearly reported; IFRA reference not clearly reported
• Molecular Formula: C15H24
• Molecular Weight: 204.35 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: (Z)-beta-farnesene is a sesquiterpene with a linear structure, characterized by its multiple double bonds. The (Z)-configuration contributes to its distinct odor profile, which is often described as green and woody. The presence of conjugated double bonds is significant for its reactivity and interaction with other fragrance and flavor compounds.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

• Odor and Flavor Descriptors: (Z)-beta-farnesene is known for its green, woody, and slightly floral aroma. It is often described as having a fresh, herbaceous scent with a hint of apple-like sweetness.
• Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific thresholds are not clearly reported in the literature.
• Typical Sensory Role: It serves as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a fresh and natural green character. In flavors, it can enhance the perception of freshness and contribute to the authenticity of fruit and herbal profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

• Known Natural Sources: (Z)-beta-farnesene is naturally found in various plants, including apples, potatoes, and certain types of flowers. It is also a component of the essential oils of some aromatic plants.
• Formation Pathways: It is biosynthesized in plants via the mevalonate pathway, which is common for the production of terpenes and sesquiterpenes.
• Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: Due to its natural occurrence in plants, (Z)-beta-farnesene can be labeled as a natural flavor or fragrance component, depending on the extraction method and source.

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

4. Use in Flavors

• Flavor Categories and Applications: (Z)-beta-farnesene is used in fruit flavors, particularly apple and pear, as well as in herbal and green flavor profiles.
• Functional Role in Flavor Systems: It acts as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the freshness and authenticity of fruit and herbal flavors.
• Typical Use Levels: Documented use levels in finished food products are not clearly reported. Industry-typical estimates suggest low ppm levels, often below 10 ppm, depending on the application.
• Stability Considerations: (Z)-beta-farnesene is relatively stable under normal conditions but can be prone to oxidation, which may alter its sensory characteristics. It is advisable to protect it from light and air exposure.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

• Fragrance Families and Product Types: Commonly used in green, floral, and woody fragrance families. It is suitable for use in personal care products, fine fragrances, and household products.
• Functional Role: Acts as a modifier and impact note, providing freshness and a natural green character.
• Typical Concentration Ranges: Typically used at low concentrations, often less than 1% in fragrance formulations.
• Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: (Z)-beta-farnesene is a middle note, contributing to the heart of the fragrance with moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA; usage should comply with general safety standards.
• European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number status): Not clearly reported; should be used in accordance with EU flavoring regulations.
• United Kingdom (Post-Brexit Alignment or Divergence): Follows EU regulations unless specified otherwise.
• Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Specific regulatory status not clearly reported; general compliance with regional standards is advised.
• Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): Not clearly reported; adherence to local regulations is recommended.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI values. General safety practices suggest low exposure levels are considered safe.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use in fragrances.
• Inhalation Exposure: As a volatile compound, inhalation exposure should be minimized in occupational settings. General ventilation and protective measures are recommended.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

• Why This Material is Valuable: (Z)-beta-farnesene is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, green character to both flavors and fragrances, enhancing naturalness and complexity.
• Typical Synergies: Works well with other green and floral notes, as well as with citrus and herbal components.
• Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering green note that may dominate the composition.
• Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-used: Often under-used in formulations seeking a natural green character due to its subtlety and volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

• Well-Established Data: The sensory profile and natural occurrence are well-documented.
• Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Use levels and specific regulatory statuses may vary; formulators often rely on industry norms.
• Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are limited, requiring cautious application.

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 13:05:41 GMT (p2)