FlavScents AInsights Entry for (Z)-calamenene (CAS: 72937-55-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (Z)-calamenene
• IUPAC Name: (Z)-2-isopropyl-3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadien-1-one
• CAS Number: 72937-55-4
• FEMA Number: Data not found
• Other Identifiers: FL number not clearly reported; CoE number not found; IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C15H22O
• Molecular Weight: 218.34 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: (Z)-calamenene is characterized by a bicyclic structure with a ketone functional group, contributing to its distinct woody and spicy aroma. The presence of isopropyl and methyl groups influences its volatility and odor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

• Odor and Flavor Descriptors: (Z)-calamenene is noted for its woody, spicy, and slightly citrus-like aroma. It has a moderate intensity and a warm, diffusive character that can enhance the complexity of fragrance and flavor compositions.
• Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific thresholds are not clearly reported; however, it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma.
• Typical Sensory Role: It serves as an impact note in both flavors and fragrances, providing a distinctive woody and spicy character that can enhance the overall sensory profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

• Known Natural Sources: (Z)-calamenene is naturally found in various plants, including species of the Lamiaceae family, such as Calamintha and Teucrium.
• Formation Pathways: It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, which is common for terpenoids.
• Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: As a naturally occurring compound, (Z)-calamenene can be designated as a natural flavor or fragrance component, depending on its extraction and processing methods.

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

4. Use in Flavors

• Flavor Categories and Applications: (Z)-calamenene is used in flavor formulations for its woody and spicy notes, often in savory applications such as sauces and seasonings.
• Functional Role in Flavor Systems: It acts as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the depth and complexity of flavor profiles.
• Typical Use Levels: Documented use levels are not clearly reported; industry-typical estimates suggest low ppm ranges (e.g., 1-10 ppm) in finished products.
• Stability Considerations: (Z)-calamenene is relatively stable under typical food processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

• Fragrance Families and Product Types: Commonly used in woody and spicy fragrance families, suitable for both personal care products and home fragrances.
• Functional Role: It serves as a trace realism note and modifier, adding complexity and warmth to fragrance compositions.
• Typical Concentration Ranges: Typically used in trace amounts, often less than 1% of the total fragrance composition.
• Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: (Z)-calamenene contributes primarily to the middle notes, providing a lasting woody and spicy character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Not explicitly listed as GRAS; usage should comply with general safety guidelines.
• European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number status): Not specifically listed; usage should align with general flavoring regulations.
• United Kingdom (Post-Brexit Alignment or Divergence): Follows EU regulations unless specified otherwise.
• Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Regulatory status not clearly reported; formulators should verify compliance with local regulations.
• Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): Specific regulatory status not found; general safety and usage guidelines apply.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI reported; general safety practices suggest low usage levels to minimize exposure.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use in fragrances.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered in manufacturing settings.
• Risk Profiles: Generally considered safe at low concentrations in both food and fragrance applications, but specific risk assessments should be conducted based on intended use.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

• Why This Material is Valuable: (Z)-calamenene offers a unique woody and spicy character that can enhance both flavors and fragrances.
• Typical Synergies: Pairs well with other woody and spicy notes, as well as citrus and herbal elements, to create balanced compositions.
• Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to overpowering and unbalanced profiles; careful calibration is essential.
• Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-used: Often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can add depth without dominating.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

• Well-Established Data: Basic chemical identity and sensory characteristics are well-documented.
• Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Usage levels and specific applications often rely on industry experience rather than published data.
• Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data are limited, necessitating cautious use and verification.

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 2026-09-26 16:47:21 GMT (p2)