FlavScents AInsights Entry for (-)-alpha-campholenic aldehyde (CAS: 23727-15-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): (-)-alpha-campholenic aldehyde
- IUPAC Name: (1R,5R)-2,2,3-trimethyl-3-bicyclo[2.2.1]heptanyl methanal
- CAS Number: 23727-15-3
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C10H16O
- Molecular Weight: 152.23 g/mol
(-)-alpha-campholenic aldehyde is a bicyclic monoterpene aldehyde. Its structure features a bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane ring system with an aldehyde functional group, which is crucial for its odor characteristics. The presence of the aldehyde group contributes to its distinctive scent profile, often described as camphoraceous with woody and herbal nuances.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
(-)-alpha-campholenic aldehyde is known for its camphoraceous odor with woody and herbal undertones. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and a clean, fresh character. The compound is typically used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a fresh, uplifting quality. While specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, its sensory role is primarily as a modifier, enhancing the complexity and depth of fragrance blends.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
(-)-alpha-campholenic aldehyde is naturally found in certain essential oils, such as those derived from eucalyptus and some coniferous trees. It can be formed through the oxidation of camphene, a common monoterpene, in the presence of oxygen. This compound is relevant to the designation of "natural fragrance" due to its occurrence in natural sources, although its extraction and purification processes must align with regulatory definitions of natural products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
(-)-alpha-campholenic aldehyde is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its strong camphoraceous odor, which can be overpowering in food products. When used, it is typically found in very low concentrations, often below 1 ppm, to impart a subtle freshness or to modify other flavor notes. Its stability under heat and acidic conditions is moderate, but it can be prone to oxidation, which may alter its sensory characteristics.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, (-)-alpha-campholenic aldehyde is valued for its fresh, camphoraceous scent. It is commonly used in woody and herbal fragrance families, contributing as a top to middle note due to its moderate volatility. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and character of the final product. It serves as a modifier, enhancing the freshness and complexity of the fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS for flavor use; typically evaluated under general safety guidelines for fragrance use.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; used in fragrances under general safety assessments.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Limited specific data; generally follows international safety standards for fragrance use.
- Latin America: No specific regulations identified; typically aligns with international safety practices.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, (-)-alpha-campholenic aldehyde is not commonly used in food products, thus specific ADI or MSDI values are not established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally considered safe at typical use levels, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant in occupational settings, where adequate ventilation and protective measures are recommended to minimize risk. Overall, the risk profile is more pertinent to fragrance applications than food.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
(-)-alpha-campholenic aldehyde is prized for its ability to impart a fresh, camphoraceous quality to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other woody and herbal notes, enhancing the overall complexity and freshness. Formulators should be cautious of its strong odor, which can dominate blends if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its fresh character can provide a unique twist.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on (-)-alpha-campholenic aldehyde is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, reflecting industry-typical practices rather than explicit regulatory guidance. Known data gaps include detailed flavor use levels and comprehensive safety assessments for all exposure routes.
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 2026-04-08 22:57:48 GMT (p2)