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, and it is recognized by FEMA with the number 3049. Other identifiers include the FL number 02.015 and CoE number 146. The molecular formula is C10H18O, and it has a molecular weight of 154.25 g/mol. Alpha-terpineol contains 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, citrus, and slightly woody. It has a moderate intensity and is used as an impact note in various fragrance compositions. The odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. In flavor applications, it imparts a subtle citrus and floral 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 rearrangement of limonene. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in products labeled as containing "natural flavors" or "natural fragrances."
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, alpha-terpineol is used to impart floral and citrus notes, making it suitable for use in beverages, candies, and baked goods. It functions as a flavor enhancer and modifier, providing depth and complexity to flavor systems. Typical use levels range from 5 to 50 ppm in finished products, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering floral notes. Alpha-terpineol is stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Alpha-terpineol is a versatile ingredient in the fragrance industry, used in a wide range of products from fine perfumes to household cleaners. It is commonly found in floral, citrus, and woody fragrance families. As a middle note, it provides a smooth transition between top and base notes, enhancing the overall fragrance profile. Typical concentrations range from 0.1% to 5% in fragrance formulations, depending on the desired intensity and product type.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, alpha-terpineol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by FEMA. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned the FL number 02.015. 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, it is accepted in Brazil and other MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized standards across the region.
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, it has a high margin of safety with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance products is generally well-tolerated, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk due to its moderate volatility. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.
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 monoterpenes and floral compounds, providing a balanced and harmonious profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate a blend if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can add depth without overpowering other components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on alpha-terpineol is well-established, with comprehensive studies supporting its safety and efficacy in both flavor and fragrance applications. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Overall, the confidence in the available data is high, with no significant gaps or ambiguities noted.
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 2026-06-04 17:28:26 GMT (p2)