FlavScents AInsights Entry for Peony Acetonitrile (CAS: 10461-98-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Peony Acetonitrile
• IUPAC Name: 2-(4-methoxyphenyl)acetonitrile
• CAS Number: 10461-98-0
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C9H9NO
• Molecular Weight: 147.17 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Peony acetonitrile contains a methoxy group attached to a phenyl ring, which is often associated with floral and sweet odor characteristics. The nitrile group can contribute to the compound's volatility and influence its sensory profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Peony acetonitrile is characterized by its floral and sweet odor, reminiscent of peony flowers. The intensity of its scent is moderate, providing a delicate yet noticeable impact in formulations. It is often used as a modifier to enhance floral notes and add complexity to fragrance compositions. The odor threshold for peony acetonitrile is not clearly reported, but it is typically used in trace amounts to achieve the desired sensory effect.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Peony acetonitrile is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for use in fragrance applications. Its formation involves chemical synthesis pathways that incorporate methoxyphenyl derivatives. Due to its synthetic origin, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Peony acetonitrile is not widely used in flavor applications due to its synthetic nature and limited natural occurrence. When used, it serves as a background modifier to enhance floral notes in certain flavor profiles. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products are not well-documented, but industry practice suggests trace amounts, often below 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering the primary flavor profile. It is stable under typical food processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, peony acetonitrile is valued for its ability to impart a floral, sweet note reminiscent of peony flowers. It is commonly used in floral fragrance families and can be found in products such as perfumes, body sprays, and lotions. Its functional role is often as a modifier or impact note, providing a middle note contribution due to its moderate volatility. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Peony acetonitrile does not have a FEMA GRAS status for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is subject to general safety assessments.
• European Union: Not explicitly listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use. Fragrance use is regulated under general safety guidelines.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Specific regulatory status in Japan, China, and ASEAN countries is not well-documented; typically follows international safety standards.
• Latin America: Regulatory information is limited; generally aligns with international safety assessments.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Not typically used in food applications; therefore, no ADI or MSDI is established. Theoretical exposure through incidental ingestion in fragrance products is considered minimal.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally regarded as safe for use in fragrances at typical concentrations. No significant irritation or sensitization data reported, but formulators should adhere to IFRA guidelines.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure, primarily in occupational settings. Adequate ventilation and protective measures are recommended during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Peony acetonitrile is valued for its ability to enhance floral notes in fragrance compositions, providing a sweet, peony-like aroma. It synergizes well with other floral and fruity notes, adding depth and complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering scent. It is often under-utilized in flavor applications due to its synthetic nature and limited regulatory approvals.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on peony acetonitrile is well-established in fragrance applications, with industry-typical practices documented. However, there are gaps in flavor use data and regulatory specifics across different regions. Formulators should verify regulatory compliance and safety assessments for their specific applications.

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 2026-05-24 08:55:17 GMT (p2)