FlavScents AInsights Entry for Orthodene (CAS: 4889-83-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Orthodene, also known by its IUPAC name as 2,4,6-trimethylphenol, is a single chemical compound with the CAS number 4889-83-2. It does not have a FEMA number assigned. The molecular formula for orthodene is C9H12O, and it has a molecular weight of 136.19 g/mol. The compound features a phenolic functional group, which is significant for its odor characteristics. The presence of methyl groups on the aromatic ring influences its volatility and sensory properties, contributing to its odor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Orthodene is characterized by a phenolic odor with nuances of medicinal and woody notes. Its intensity is moderate, and it is often used as a background note to add depth and complexity to fragrance compositions. The odor threshold for orthodene is not clearly reported in the literature, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma. In flavor applications, it may serve as a modifier to enhance the authenticity of certain profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Orthodene is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for industrial use. It can be formed through the alkylation of phenol with methanol in the presence of an acid catalyst. This synthetic origin limits its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component. Its presence in natural products is rare, and it is not typically associated with any known natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, orthodene is used sparingly due to its strong phenolic character. It can be found in flavor categories such as smoky or woody profiles, where it acts as a background realism enhancer. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages are not well-documented, but industry practices suggest concentrations in the range of 0.1 to 5 ppm. Orthodene is stable under typical processing conditions, but care should be taken to avoid excessive heat which may lead to degradation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Orthodene is utilized in fragrance compositions, particularly within the woody and medicinal fragrance families. It serves as a modifier or impact note, providing depth and complexity. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts up to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity. Orthodene contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, orthodene does not have a specific FEMA GRAS status for flavor use. In the European Union, it is not listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 as a flavoring substance. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom post-Brexit aligns with the EU regulations. In Asia, including Japan and China, orthodene's use in flavors and fragrances is subject to national regulations, which may vary. In Latin America, specific regulatory information is limited, and formulators should consult local guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Orthodene's safety profile in flavor applications is not extensively documented, with no specific ADI or MSDI values available. For dermal exposure in fragrance use, it is generally considered safe at low concentrations, but higher levels may cause irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is primarily a concern in occupational settings, where adequate ventilation and protective measures are recommended. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications may differ, with more stringent controls typically applied in fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Orthodene is valued for its ability to impart a phenolic, woody character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other woody and smoky notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. A common pitfall is overuse, which can lead to an overpowering medicinal aroma. Formulators should carefully balance orthodene with other components to achieve the desired effect without overwhelming the composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on orthodene is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory characteristics. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, particularly for flavor use. Industry practices often rely on informed estimates and typical usage patterns due to the lack of comprehensive documentation.

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 2026-09-26 12:54:44 GMT (p2)