FlavScents AInsights Entry for Cyclamen Propanal (CAS: 18127-01-0)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Cyclamen propanal, also known by its IUPAC name as 2-(3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)propyl)propanal, is a synthetic fragrance compound. Its CAS number is 18127-01-0. While it does not have a FEMA number, it is recognized in various fragrance and flavor databases. The molecular formula for cyclamen propanal is C16H24O, with a molecular weight of 232.36 g/mol. The compound features a propanal functional group, which contributes to its distinctive floral and fresh odor profile, often associated with cyclamen flowers.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Cyclamen propanal is characterized by its floral, fresh, and slightly sweet odor, reminiscent of cyclamen flowers. It is often described as having a moderate intensity with good diffusion properties, making it suitable for use as an impact note in fragrance compositions. The compound does not have a well-documented taste threshold, but its primary role is in olfactory applications rather than gustatory. It serves as a modifier and impact note, providing a fresh floral character to fragrance blends.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Cyclamen propanal is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally. It is produced through chemical synthesis, typically involving the reaction of appropriate precursors under controlled conditions. As a synthetic fragrance, it does not qualify for "natural fragrance" designation. Its creation does not involve natural formation pathways such as the Maillard reaction or fermentation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Cyclamen propanal is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primary role as a fragrance compound. When used, it may contribute a floral note to certain flavor profiles, but specific use levels in food or beverages are not well-documented. Industry-typical use levels, if applicable, would likely be in the low ppm range, given its potent odor profile. Stability in flavor systems would depend on the matrix, but it is generally stable under typical storage conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, cyclamen propanal is used across various fragrance families, including floral, fresh, and green compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, providing a fresh floral character that enhances the overall scent profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts up to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. It contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, cyclamen propanal is not specifically listed under FEMA GRAS for flavor use but is used in fragrances. In the European Union, it is subject to the general safety requirements of Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for fragrance compounds. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, specific regulations may vary, but it is generally accepted in fragrance applications. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR follow similar guidelines to the EU.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, cyclamen propanal is not typically used in flavors, so specific ADI or MSDI values are not available. Dermal exposure considerations are more relevant, with potential for irritation or sensitization, although it is generally considered safe at typical fragrance use levels. Inhalation exposure is a consideration for occupational settings, but it is not classified as hazardous under normal use conditions. Risk profiles differ between food and fragrance applications, with more stringent evaluations for dermal and inhalation routes in fragrances.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Cyclamen propanal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, floral character to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other floral and green notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the scent. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can dominate a blend. It is often under-utilized in complex compositions where subtlety is desired.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
Data on cyclamen propanal is well-established in the fragrance industry, with documented sensory and regulatory profiles. However, its use in flavors is less common, leading to gaps in specific flavor-related data. Industry practices are typically based on fragrance applications, with some undocumented but widely accepted usage patterns.
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 2026-06-02 11:47:12 GMT (p2)