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 renowned for its sweet, fruity aroma that closely resembles that of fresh raspberries. It is often described as having a berry-like, floral, and slightly woody scent. The compound is used as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a strong, recognizable raspberry character. Its odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations.

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 is responsible for the formation of many aromatic compounds. Due to its natural occurrence, raspberry ketone can be labeled as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts, provided it is derived from natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Raspberry ketone is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in berry and fruit-flavored products. It serves as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and intensity of raspberry flavors. Typical use levels in food and beverages range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering effect. The compound is 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 a sweet, berry-like note. It is often used in perfumes, body sprays, and personal care products. The compound is typically employed at low concentrations due to its potent aroma, and it primarily contributes to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition.

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: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in some ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, but specific regulations may vary by country.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Raspberry ketone is considered safe for use in food and fragrances at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Raspberry ketone is valued for its ability to impart a strong, authentic raspberry aroma. It synergizes well with other berry and fruit flavors, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potency to avoid overpowering the blend. It is often underutilized in non-fruit applications where a subtle berry note could add depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on raspberry ketone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and safety profiles documented. While industry practices are generally consistent, some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps are minimal, primarily concerning long-term exposure studies.

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 2026-06-03 14:43:28 GMT (p2)