FlavScents AInsights Entry for Bornylene (CAS: 464-17-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Bornylene, also known as 2,6,6-trimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]hept-2-ene, is a bicyclic monoterpene with the CAS number 464-17-5. It does not have a FEMA number assigned. The molecular formula for bornylene is C10H16, and it has a molecular weight of 136.24 g/mol. The structure of bornylene includes a bicyclic framework with a double bond, contributing to its distinct odor profile. The presence of methyl groups and the bicyclic structure are significant for its odor characteristics, which are often described as camphoraceous and woody.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Bornylene is characterized by a camphoraceous, woody odor with moderate intensity and diffusion. It is often used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a fresh, clean scent reminiscent of camphor and pine. The odor threshold for bornylene is not well-documented, but it is typically used in small concentrations due to its potent aroma. In flavor applications, bornylene can impart a subtle woody note, although its use is less common compared to its role in fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Bornylene is naturally found in certain essential oils, such as those derived from pine and other coniferous trees. It can also be formed through the dehydration of borneol, a process that occurs naturally in some plants. The presence of bornylene in natural sources allows it to be classified under "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, bornylene is used sparingly due to its strong camphoraceous note. It can be found in flavor formulations for mint, pine, and herbal profiles, where it acts as a modifier to enhance freshness and complexity. Typical use levels in food and beverages are not well-documented, but industry estimates suggest concentrations below 1 ppm are common to avoid overpowering the flavor profile. Bornylene is relatively stable under normal conditions but may degrade under high heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Bornylene is more prominently used in fragrance formulations, particularly in the creation of woody, camphoraceous, and fresh accords. It is a versatile component in fragrance families such as fougère, chypre, and pine. Bornylene serves as a top to middle note, providing a fresh, clean scent that enhances the overall fragrance profile. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from trace amounts up to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity and character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, bornylene is not specifically listed under FEMA GRAS but is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices. In the European Union, it falls under the broader category of natural flavoring substances as per Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008. The UK follows similar guidelines post-Brexit. In Asia, regulatory frameworks vary, with Japan and China having specific lists for approved flavoring substances, though bornylene is typically included under natural extracts. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR align with international standards, allowing its use in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, bornylene is considered safe at low concentrations typical of flavor use, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices. 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

Bornylene is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, camphoraceous note, making it a useful component in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other terpenes and can enhance the freshness of mint and herbal profiles. Formulators should be cautious of its strong odor, which can easily dominate a blend if used excessively. It is often under-used in flavor applications due to its potent aroma but can be effectively employed in small amounts to add complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on bornylene is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory characteristics. However, specific use levels and regulatory details may vary by region and application. Industry practices often guide its use, particularly in fragrance formulations, where empirical knowledge supplements documented data. Known data gaps include precise flavor use levels and comprehensive toxicological evaluations.

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 03:24:52 GMT (p2)