FlavScents AInsights Entry for Fenchone (CAS: 1195-79-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Fenchone
• IUPAC Name: (1R,4S)-1,3,3-trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-one
• CAS Number: 1195-79-5
• FEMA Number: 2481
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.008
• Molecular Formula: C10H16O
• Molecular Weight: 152.23 g/mol

Fenchone is a bicyclic monoterpene ketone characterized by its camphoraceous odor. The presence of the ketone functional group contributes significantly to its odor profile, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Fenchone is known for its distinct camphoraceous, woody, and slightly minty odor. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with a sharp, fresh character. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in formulations, providing a cooling and refreshing sensation. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, fenchone's potent aroma suggests it is effective at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Fenchone naturally occurs in several essential oils, most notably in fennel and wormwood. It is biosynthesized in plants through the cyclization of geranyl pyrophosphate, a common precursor in the formation of monoterpenes. Fenchone's presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Fenchone is utilized in flavor formulations for its camphoraceous and minty notes, often enhancing herbal, mint, and spice profiles. It is commonly found in applications such as confectionery, beverages, and oral care products. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially overpowering other flavor components. Fenchone is relatively stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under prolonged exposure to high heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In perfumery, fenchone is valued for its fresh, camphoraceous scent, contributing to the top notes of fragrance compositions. It is frequently used in fougère, chypre, and herbal fragrance families. Concentration levels in perfumes typically range from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity and role within the fragrance. Fenchone's volatility makes it a suitable top note, providing an initial burst of freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Fenchone is recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 07.008.
• United Kingdom: Regulatory status aligns with the EU post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, though formulators should verify specific country requirements due to potential variability.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Fenchone's safety profile is well-established for oral exposure, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically defined but considered safe at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling. The risk profile is consistent across food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Fenchone is prized for its ability to impart a fresh, camphoraceous note, enhancing both flavor and fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with mint, citrus, and herbal notes, though care must be taken to avoid overpowering the blend. Common pitfalls include overuse, leading to an excessively medicinal character. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where its subtle impact can enhance overall freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on fenchone is robust, with well-documented sensory and regulatory information. Industry practices are well-established, though specific numeric thresholds for sensory perception are less frequently reported. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, with harmonized guidelines across major markets.

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 07:46:26 GMT (p2)