FlavScents AInsights Entry for Grapefruit Acetal (CAS: 67674-46-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Grapefruit Acetal
• IUPAC Name: 4-(2,2,3-Trimethyl-3-cyclopenten-1-yl)-3-buten-2-one
• CAS Number: 67674-46-8
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C13H20O
• Molecular Weight: 192.30 g/mol

Grapefruit acetal is a synthetic compound known for its distinctive grapefruit-like aroma. It contains functional groups such as an acetal linkage, which contributes to its characteristic odor profile. The structure-odor relationship is significant as the acetal group is often associated with fruity and fresh notes, enhancing its use in flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Grapefruit acetal is characterized by its fresh, citrusy, and grapefruit-like aroma. It is often described as having a sweet, fruity, and slightly floral scent with moderate intensity and good diffusion. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in formulations, providing a realistic grapefruit character. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, it is typically used in low concentrations to achieve the desired sensory effect.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Grapefruit acetal is not naturally occurring and is synthesized for use in flavors and fragrances. It is not formed through natural pathways such as the Maillard reaction or fermentation. Despite its synthetic origin, it is often used to mimic natural grapefruit flavors and fragrances, making it relevant for "natural flavor" designations when used in conjunction with other natural ingredients.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Grapefruit acetal is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in citrus and tropical fruit categories. It serves as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and brightness of grapefruit and other citrus flavors. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, grapefruit acetal is used in citrus, fruity, and fresh fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, providing a vibrant and uplifting top note. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the product type and desired effect. Its volatility makes it suitable for top note applications, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Grapefruit acetal is not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS but is used in compliance with general safety standards.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; use is based on safety assessments.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Limited specific data; generally follows international safety guidelines.
• Latin America: Usage is guided by general safety and regulatory standards; specific approvals may vary.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Grapefruit acetal is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances when used within recommended levels. Oral exposure through flavor use is minimal, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally low risk, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility. Overall, the risk profile does not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Grapefruit acetal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, authentic grapefruit note in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and fruity compounds, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial character. It is often under-utilized in non-citrus applications where a hint of freshness is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on grapefruit acetal is well-established in terms of sensory characteristics and typical usage levels. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, relying on industry-typical practices and safety assessments. Known data gaps include precise sensory thresholds and comprehensive regional regulatory details.

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 2026-05-26 05:00:25 GMT (p2)