FlavScents AInsights Entry: Raspberry Ketone (CAS: 5471-51-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Raspberry Ketone
• IUPAC Name: 4-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)butan-2-one
• CAS Number: 5471-51-2
• FEMA Number: 2588
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.008
• Molecular Formula: C10H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 164.20 g/mol

Raspberry ketone is a phenolic compound characterized by a ketone functional group attached to a phenyl ring. This structure is crucial for its characteristic fruity aroma, reminiscent of raspberries, which is widely utilized in flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Raspberry ketone is known for its sweet, fruity, and berry-like aroma, closely resembling that of fresh raspberries. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with a high diffusion rate. The compound serves as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a distinct raspberry character. Odor thresholds are not well-documented, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Raspberry ketone naturally occurs in a variety of fruits, including raspberries, cranberries, and blackberries. It is biosynthesized in plants through the shikimic acid pathway, which leads to the formation of phenolic compounds. In the context of "natural flavor" designation, raspberry ketone can be derived from natural sources or synthesized to mimic its natural counterpart.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Raspberry ketone is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as candies, beverages, and desserts. It functions as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity of raspberry and other berry flavors. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering aroma. The compound is relatively stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, raspberry ketone is utilized in fruity and floral compositions, contributing to the top and middle notes. It is often employed in personal care products, such as perfumes and lotions, to impart a fresh, sweet aroma. Typical concentration ranges are from trace amounts to 0.1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility allows it to provide an immediate impact upon application.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 07.008.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in some ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, though some variability exists in country-specific regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, raspberry ketone is considered safe within the typical use levels in food, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not clearly established but generally recognized as safe. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally low-risk, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed to prevent irritation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Raspberry ketone is valued for its ability to impart a true-to-nature raspberry aroma. It synergizes well with other berry and fruit flavors, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to an artificial or cloying profile. It is often under-utilized in savory applications, where it can add unexpected depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on raspberry ketone is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory attributes and regulatory status. Industry practices are well-documented, though some gaps exist in toxicological data, particularly regarding long-term exposure effects.

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 2026-04-10 18:31:28 GMT (p2)