FlavScents AInsights Entry for Methyl Heptenone (CAS: 110-93-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Methyl Heptenone
• IUPAC Name: 6-Methylhept-5-en-2-one
• CAS Number: 110-93-0
• FEMA Number: 2670
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.191
• Molecular Formula: C8H14O
• Molecular Weight: 126.20 g/mol

Methyl heptenone is a ketone characterized by its unsaturated aliphatic structure, which contributes to its distinctive odor profile. The presence of the carbonyl group is crucial for its odor characteristics, often described as citrusy and green, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methyl heptenone is known for its fresh, citrus-like odor with green and slightly floral nuances. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it suitable for use as an impact note in formulations. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable effects even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Methyl heptenone occurs naturally in various essential oils, including those of lemongrass and citronella. It can also be formed through the degradation of terpenes, a common process in the biosynthesis of many plant-derived compounds. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methyl heptenone is utilized in flavor formulations for its ability to impart fresh, citrusy notes. It is commonly used in citrus, herbal, and floral flavor categories. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is generally stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, methyl heptenone is valued for its fresh, green, and citrusy aroma, contributing primarily to the top notes of a fragrance composition. It is used in a variety of product types, including perfumes, soaps, and household cleaners. Typical concentration ranges from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the formulation. Its volatility makes it an effective top note, providing an initial burst of freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 07.191.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in countries like Brazil and MERCOSUR.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, methyl heptenone is considered safe within the typical use levels in food, with no specific ADI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be followed to prevent overexposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Methyl heptenone is prized for its ability to enhance freshness and provide a natural citrus character. It synergizes well with other citrus and green notes but can be overpowering if used excessively. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential for degradation under extreme conditions, ensuring it is used in appropriate concentrations to achieve the desired effect.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on methyl heptenone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are generally consistent, some variability in natural occurrence and formation pathways may exist, necessitating careful sourcing and quality control.

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

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 2026-04-03 11:46:34 GMT (p2)