FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-acetyl-4-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione (CAS: 4056-69-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): 2-acetyl-4-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione
- IUPAC Name: 2-acetyl-4-methylcyclopentane-1,3-dione
- CAS Number: 4056-69-3
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C8H10O3
- Molecular Weight: 154.17 g/mol
2-acetyl-4-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione is a diketone compound characterized by its cyclopentanedione core with acetyl and methyl substituents. The presence of these functional groups contributes to its unique odor profile, which is relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
2-acetyl-4-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione is known for its sweet, caramel-like odor with nuances of maple and burnt sugar. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and is used to impart a rich, warm character to formulations. The compound serves as an impact note in flavor systems, enhancing the overall sensory experience by providing depth and complexity.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
This compound does not occur naturally in significant quantities and is typically synthesized for use in flavor and fragrance applications. Its formation can be attributed to synthetic organic chemistry processes rather than natural biosynthetic pathways. As such, 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
2-acetyl-4-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione is utilized in various flavor categories, including bakery, confectionery, and dairy products, where it contributes a caramel-like note. It functions as a flavor enhancer and modifier, providing a rich, sweet background. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. The compound is stable under typical processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, 2-acetyl-4-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione is used in gourmand and oriental fragrance families. It acts as a base note, providing warmth and depth to the fragrance composition. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to 0.5% in the final product, depending on the desired intensity and character. Its volatility is moderate, contributing to the middle to base notes of a fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring guidelines.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with local flavor and fragrance regulations is advised.
- Latin America: No specific data; adherence to regional standards is recommended.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI established; usage should be guided by industry standards and safety assessments.
- Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance use.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered.
Overall, the risk profile for 2-acetyl-4-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione is considered low when used within recommended guidelines for both food and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
2-acetyl-4-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione is valued for its ability to impart a rich, caramel-like note to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other sweet and creamy notes, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance depth without dominating the profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 2-acetyl-4-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical usage levels. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and safety assessments.
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 2026-09-17 07:21:57 GMT (p2)