FlavScents AInsights Entry for Piperitenone (CAS: 491-09-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Piperitenone is a monoterpenoid compound commonly found in certain essential oils. Its IUPAC name is 6-isopropyl-3-methyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one. The CAS number for piperitenone is 491-09-8. While it does not have a FEMA number, it is recognized in various chemical databases for its unique properties. The molecular formula of piperitenone is C10H14O, and it has a molecular weight of 150.22 g/mol. Structurally, piperitenone contains a cyclohexenone ring with isopropyl and methyl substituents, which contribute to its characteristic odor profile. The presence of the carbonyl group in the cyclohexenone ring is significant for its odor characteristics, often described as minty or camphoraceous.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Piperitenone is known for its distinct minty and camphoraceous odor, which can be quite intense and diffusive. It is often described as having a cooling sensation, similar to menthol, but with a more herbal and less sweet undertone. The taste and odor thresholds for piperitenone are not well-documented, but it is typically used in small quantities due to its potent sensory impact. In flavor and fragrance formulations, piperitenone serves as an impact note, providing a fresh and invigorating character that can enhance the overall profile of a product.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Piperitenone naturally occurs in various essential oils, particularly those derived from the Mentha species, such as peppermint and spearmint. It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, which is responsible for the formation of many terpenoids. The compound's presence in essential oils contributes to their designation as "natural flavors" or "natural fragrances," depending on the context of use. The concentration of piperitenone in these oils can vary significantly based on factors such as plant species, geographical origin, and extraction methods.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In the flavor industry, piperitenone is primarily used in mint-flavored products, including confectionery, chewing gum, and oral care products. It acts as a functional component that enhances the minty character and provides a cooling effect. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products are not explicitly documented, but industry practices suggest low ppm levels due to its strong impact. Piperitenone is relatively stable under typical processing conditions, although it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Piperitenone is utilized in fragrance formulations, particularly in the creation of minty, herbal, and fresh accords. It is commonly found in personal care products, household cleaners, and air fresheners. In these applications, piperitenone serves as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the top or middle notes of a fragrance composition. Its volatility allows it to impart an immediate fresh sensation, although it may not persist as a base note. Typical concentration ranges are qualitative, with usage often dictated by the desired intensity and character of the final product.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, piperitenone is not specifically listed as a FEMA GRAS substance but is used under the broader category of natural flavoring substances. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, with its use subject to general safety assessments for flavoring substances. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, regulatory frameworks vary, with Japan and China having specific guidelines for natural flavorings. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR align with international standards but may have additional local requirements.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Piperitenone's safety profile is primarily evaluated in the context of its natural occurrence in essential oils. For oral exposure, specific ADI or MSDI values are not available, but its use in flavors is generally considered safe at low concentrations. Dermal exposure in fragrances is subject to IFRA guidelines, which assess potential irritation or sensitization risks. Inhalation exposure is typically low-risk due to its volatility and use in small quantities. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with safety ensured through adherence to regulatory guidelines.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Piperitenone is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, minty character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other minty and herbal notes, enhancing the overall sensory experience. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering or medicinal aroma. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where subtlety is required. Balancing piperitenone with complementary notes can prevent it from dominating the profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on piperitenone is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory characteristics. However, specific quantitative data on use levels and safety thresholds are less documented, relying on industry-typical practices. Regulatory information is generally harmonized across regions, though specific approvals may vary. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological studies and precise sensory thresholds.

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 2026-09-25 16:34:13 GMT (p2)