FlavScents AInsights Entry for Cyclotene (CAS: 765-70-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Cyclotene, also known as 2-Hydroxy-3-methyl-2-cyclopenten-1-one, is a single chemical compound with the CAS number 765-70-8. It is identified by the FEMA number 2360. The molecular formula for cyclotene is C6H8O2, and it has a molecular weight of 112.13 g/mol. Cyclotene is characterized by its lactone functional group, which contributes significantly to its sweet, caramel-like odor profile. This structural feature is crucial for its role in flavor and fragrance applications, where it imparts a rich, sweet aroma reminiscent of maple syrup and caramel.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Cyclotene is renowned for its sweet, caramel-like odor with nuances of maple syrup and burnt sugar. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties. The compound serves as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a distinct caramel character that enhances the overall sensory experience. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely reported, cyclotene is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent sensory attributes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Cyclotene naturally occurs in a variety of foods, including maple syrup, coffee, and roasted nuts. It is primarily formed through the Maillard reaction, a complex chemical process that occurs during the heating of sugars and amino acids. This reaction is responsible for the development of many flavor compounds, including cyclotene, which contributes to the characteristic flavors of cooked and roasted foods. Cyclotene's presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" in regulatory contexts.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Cyclotene is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in categories such as bakery, confectionery, and dairy products. It functions as a key component in flavor systems, providing a rich, caramel-like note that enhances the sweetness and complexity of the product. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations used in applications requiring a more pronounced caramel character. Cyclotene is relatively stable under typical processing conditions, although it may degrade at very high temperatures or extreme pH levels.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, cyclotene is valued for its sweet, caramel-like aroma, which is used to add warmth and depth to various fragrance families, including gourmand and oriental. It acts as a modifier and impact note, often used in trace amounts to enhance the overall fragrance profile. Cyclotene is typically used at concentrations ranging from 0.01% to 0.1% in fragrance formulations. Its moderate volatility allows it to contribute to both the middle and base notes of a fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, cyclotene is recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by FEMA for use in food flavors. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned an FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, cyclotene is permitted in countries like Japan and China, although specific regulatory details may vary. In Latin America, countries such as Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also allow its use, with harmonized assumptions generally applied across the region.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Cyclotene's safety profile is well-established, with oral exposure considered safe at typical use levels in food. The compound has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at concentrations used in flavor applications. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is also considered safe, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, and occupational exposure limits are not typically exceeded in standard use scenarios. Overall, cyclotene presents a low risk in both food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Cyclotene is a valuable material for formulators due to its ability to impart a rich, caramel-like character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other sweet and creamy notes, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its potent aroma can dominate a formulation if not balanced properly. Cyclotene is often under-utilized in savory applications, where it can add depth and complexity when used judiciously.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on cyclotene is well-documented, with robust sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-established, although specific use levels may vary based on application and regional regulations. Some data gaps exist in terms of precise sensory thresholds, but these do not significantly impact its safe and effective use in formulations.

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 2026-09-24 13:39:09 GMT (p2)