FlavScents AInsights Entry for Alpha-Terpineol (CAS: 98-55-5)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Alpha-terpineol is a monoterpene alcohol commonly used in the flavor and fragrance industry. Its IUPAC name is 2-(4-methylcyclohex-3-en-1-yl)propan-2-ol. The CAS number for alpha-terpineol is 98-55-5. It is also identified by FEMA number 3049. Other identifiers include FL number 02.008 and CoE number 146. The molecular formula of alpha-terpineol is C10H18O, with a molecular weight of 154.25 g/mol. The compound features a hydroxyl group, which contributes to its solubility in water and its characteristic floral and lilac-like odor.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Alpha-terpineol is known for its pleasant floral aroma, often described as lilac-like, with subtle citrus and pine nuances. It has a moderate intensity and is used as an impact note in various fragrance compositions. The odor threshold of alpha-terpineol is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. In flavor applications, it imparts a fresh, slightly sweet taste, enhancing the overall profile of the product.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Alpha-terpineol naturally occurs in a variety of essential oils, including pine oil, petitgrain oil, and cajuput oil. It can also be found in small quantities in the oils of eucalyptus and tea tree. The compound is typically formed through the hydration of terpinolene or the dehydration of terpin hydrate. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, alpha-terpineol is used across various categories, including beverages, confectionery, and baked goods. It serves as a modifier, enhancing the floral and citrus notes of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to a dominant floral note. Alpha-terpineol is stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Alpha-terpineol is a versatile ingredient in the fragrance industry, commonly used in floral, citrus, and woody fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, providing freshness and complexity to the fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are between 0.1% and 1%. Due to its moderate volatility, alpha-terpineol contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, alpha-terpineol is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 02.008. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, alpha-terpineol is approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR have harmonized regulations allowing its use in both flavors and fragrances.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Alpha-terpineol is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, the compound has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, although it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is considered safe, with no significant occupational hazards identified. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no major differences in safety considerations.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Alpha-terpineol is valued for its ability to enhance floral and citrus notes in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other terpenes and floral compounds, providing depth and complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate a composition if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle floral lift, and over-use can lead to an overpowering lilac note.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on alpha-terpineol is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, although some variability in natural source composition may exist. No significant data gaps or regulatory ambiguities are noted, ensuring high confidence in its use and safety.
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 08:15:40 GMT (p2)