FlavScents AInsights Entry: Alpha-Farnesene (CAS: 502-61-4)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Alpha-farnesene is a sesquiterpene hydrocarbon commonly found in nature. Its IUPAC name is (3E,6E)-3,7,11-trimethyl-1,3,6,10-dodecatetraene. The CAS number for alpha-farnesene is 502-61-4. It does not have a FEMA number assigned. Other identifiers include its molecular formula, C15H24, and a molecular weight of 204.35 g/mol. Alpha-farnesene is characterized by its conjugated diene structure, which contributes to its reactivity and odor profile. The presence of multiple double bonds is significant for its role in fragrance and flavor applications, providing a green, apple-like aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Alpha-farnesene is known for its distinctive green, apple-like odor, often described as fresh and fruity. It is a key component in the aroma of green apples and contributes to the characteristic scent of many fruits. The intensity of its odor is moderate, and it is often used as an impact note in flavor and fragrance formulations. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, alpha-farnesene is typically used to impart a natural, fresh quality to products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Alpha-farnesene is naturally occurring in a variety of plants, including apples, pears, and other fruits. It is also found in the essential oils of some flowers and herbs. The compound is biosynthesized in plants via the mevalonate pathway, where it serves as a precursor to other terpenoids. Its presence in fruits is often associated with the ripening process, contributing to the aroma profile that signals maturity. Alpha-farnesene's natural occurrence makes it relevant for "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, alpha-farnesene is used to enhance fruity and green notes, particularly in apple and pear flavors. It serves as an impact note and can also provide background realism in complex flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Alpha-farnesene is relatively stable under normal conditions but may degrade under high heat or acidic conditions, which should be considered during formulation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Alpha-farnesene is utilized in various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and green compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, providing freshness and naturalness to perfumes and personal care products. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts up to 0.5%, depending on the desired effect. Due to its volatility, alpha-farnesene contributes primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, alpha-farnesene is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, with specific FL number status not clearly reported. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, and in Latin America, such as Brazil and MERCOSUR, alpha-farnesene is typically accepted in flavor and fragrance applications, although specific approvals may vary. Formulators should verify compliance with local regulations.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Alpha-farnesene's safety profile is generally favorable, with low toxicity reported in oral exposure scenarios typical of flavor use. No specific ADI or MSDI values are available, but it is considered safe within typical use levels. For dermal exposure in fragrance applications, alpha-farnesene is not known to cause irritation or sensitization, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Alpha-farnesene is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, natural aroma to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fruity and green notes, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of its stability under extreme conditions and consider encapsulation or stabilization techniques if necessary. It is often under-used in formulations seeking a natural profile, providing an opportunity for innovation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on alpha-farnesene is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory characteristics and natural occurrence. While regulatory and toxicological information is generally consistent, some regional variations and undocumented practices exist. Formulators should ensure compliance with local regulations and consider industry-typical practices where specific data is lacking.
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 2026-05-28 19:27:36 GMT (p2)
