FlavScents AInsights Entry for Viridiflorene (CAS: 21747-46-6)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Viridiflorene
- IUPAC Name: 1,5,5-Trimethyl-6-methylene-bicyclo[2.1.1]hexane
- CAS Number: 21747-46-6
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C10H16
- Molecular Weight: 136.24 g/mol
Viridiflorene is a bicyclic sesquiterpene characterized by its unique structural features, including a methylene bridge and multiple methyl groups. These functional groups contribute to its distinctive odor profile, which is relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Viridiflorene is known for its woody, earthy aroma with subtle green and herbal nuances. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and a diffusive character that can enhance the complexity of a fragrance or flavor composition. The compound is typically used as a background note to add depth and realism to formulations.
Taste and odor thresholds for viridiflorene are not well-documented in the literature, but its sensory role is primarily as a modifier and enhancer in both flavor and fragrance systems.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Viridiflorene is naturally found in various essential oils, including those derived from certain species of pine and eucalyptus. It is formed through the biosynthesis of terpenes in plants, where it contributes to the characteristic aroma of the essential oils.
The presence of viridiflorene in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, aligning with consumer preferences for natural products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Viridiflorene is utilized in flavor formulations to impart woody and earthy notes, often enhancing the authenticity of herbal and spice flavors. It is commonly used in savory applications, such as soups and sauces, as well as in certain alcoholic beverages.
Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products are not explicitly documented, but industry practices suggest low to moderate ppm levels, depending on the desired intensity and complexity of the flavor profile. Stability considerations include moderate resistance to heat and oxidation, making it suitable for various processing conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, viridiflorene is valued for its contribution to woody and green fragrance families. It serves as a modifier and impact note, providing a natural and earthy character to perfumes, colognes, and personal care products.
Typical concentration ranges are qualitative, with viridiflorene often used in trace amounts to achieve the desired olfactory effect. Its volatility places it in the middle note category, where it can bridge top and base notes effectively.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Viridiflorene does not have a specific FEMA GRAS number, indicating limited explicit regulatory recognition for flavor use.
- European Union: Not explicitly listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; its use may be subject to general safety assessments.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulatory alignment with the EU is assumed, but specific divergence is not documented.
- Asia: Limited information is available for Japan, China, and ASEAN countries; harmonized assumptions may apply.
- Latin America: Regulatory status in Brazil and MERCOSUR is not clearly reported, suggesting a need for case-by-case evaluation.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Data on acceptable daily intake (ADI) or threshold of toxicological concern (TTC) for viridiflorene is not found. Formulators should rely on general safety assessments for similar terpenes.
- Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization potential; formulators should consider IFRA guidelines for similar compounds.
- Inhalation Exposure: As a volatile compound, inhalation exposure should be managed in occupational settings, though specific data is lacking.
Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications, with fragrance use requiring careful consideration of dermal and inhalation exposure.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Viridiflorene is valued for its ability to enhance the complexity and authenticity of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other woody and herbal notes, providing a natural and earthy character. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its distinct aroma can dominate a composition if not balanced properly.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on viridiflorene is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are notable gaps in regulatory documentation and toxicological data, which may require formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and safety assessments for similar compounds.
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
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 2026-09-26 13:44:57 GMT (p2)