FlavScents AInsights Entry for Limonene Oxide (CAS: 1195-92-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Limonene oxide is a chemical compound commonly used in the flavor and fragrance industry. Its IUPAC name is 1,2-epoxy-p-menth-8-ene. The CAS number for limonene oxide is 1195-92-2. It is also identified by the FEMA number 4709. The molecular formula of limonene oxide is C10H16O, and it has a molecular weight of 152.23 g/mol. The compound features an epoxide functional group, which contributes to its unique odor profile. The presence of the epoxide ring is significant for its reactivity and sensory characteristics, often imparting a fresh, citrus-like aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Limonene oxide is characterized by its fresh, citrusy odor with a slightly sweet undertone. It is often described as having a clean, lemon-like scent with moderate intensity and good diffusion. The compound is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a bright and uplifting citrus character. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, its sensory role is primarily as a modifier and enhancer in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Limonene oxide is naturally found in various citrus oils, such as orange and lemon oils. It can be formed through the oxidation of limonene, a common terpene in citrus fruits. This oxidation can occur naturally during the storage of citrus oils or can be induced through chemical processes. The presence of limonene oxide in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, depending on the context of its use.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In the flavor industry, limonene oxide is used to impart a fresh, citrusy note to a variety of products, including beverages, confectionery, and baked goods. It serves as a functional component in flavor systems, enhancing the overall citrus profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. Limonene oxide is generally stable under typical food processing conditions, but care should be taken to avoid excessive heat and prolonged exposure to air, which can lead to degradation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Limonene oxide is utilized in the fragrance industry across various fragrance families, including citrus, floral, and fresh compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top notes of a fragrance with its bright, citrusy aroma. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Due to its volatility, limonene oxide primarily contributes to the top notes of a fragrance, providing an initial burst of freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, limonene oxide is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for use in flavors. 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, including Japan and China, limonene oxide is generally accepted for use in flavors and fragrances, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also permit its use, aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Limonene oxide is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances when used within recommended levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no specific ADI or MSDI established, but it is generally recognized as safe at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is also considered safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, as supported by IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed to prevent irritation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Limonene oxide is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, citrusy character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral notes, enhancing the overall brightness and appeal of a formulation. Formulators should be cautious of its reactivity due to the epoxide group, which can lead to unwanted reactions if not properly managed. It is often under-used in complex formulations where its impact could be beneficial.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on limonene oxide is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific numeric thresholds for sensory perception are less frequently reported. There are no significant data gaps or regulatory ambiguities noted for this compound.

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 2026-03-21 07:41:19 GMT (p2)