FlavScents AInsights Entry for Beta-Bourbonene (CAS: 5208-59-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Beta-Bourbonene
• IUPAC Name: (3R,4aR,8aR)-3,8-dimethyl-6-methylidene-decahydronaphthalene
• CAS Number: 5208-59-3
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C15H24
• Molecular Weight: 204.35 g/mol

Beta-bourbonene is a sesquiterpene characterized by its bicyclic structure, which contributes to its distinctive odor profile. The presence of methyl and methylene groups in its structure is significant for its odor characteristics, often described as woody and citrusy.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Beta-bourbonene is known for its woody, citrusy aroma with a hint of spice. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and a pleasant, diffusive quality. The compound is typically used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a natural and fresh character. Specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its sensory role is primarily as a modifier and enhancer in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Beta-bourbonene is naturally found in various essential oils, including those from black pepper, ginger, and certain citrus fruits. It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, a common route for sesquiterpene formation. Its presence in natural sources makes it relevant for "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations, aligning with consumer preferences for natural ingredients.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Beta-bourbonene is utilized in flavor formulations for its woody and citrusy notes, often enhancing the complexity of spice and citrus flavors. It is commonly used in savory applications, such as sauces and seasonings, as well as in beverages. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or oxidative environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, beta-bourbonene is valued for its ability to impart a natural, woody character. It is used across various fragrance families, including woody, citrus, and spicy compositions. Its role can vary from a trace realism enhancer to a prominent impact note. Concentration ranges in formulations typically vary from 0.01% to 0.5%, depending on the desired effect. It contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Beta-bourbonene is not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA, but its natural occurrence in essential oils used in flavors may imply acceptance under certain conditions.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; its use may be governed by general flavoring regulations.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align closely with EU standards, with no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Regulatory status varies; Japan and China may require specific safety assessments for new flavoring agents.
• Latin America: Generally follows international guidelines, but specific national regulations may apply.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Beta-bourbonene's safety profile is primarily assessed through its natural occurrence in commonly consumed essential oils. Oral exposure through flavor use is considered low risk at typical use levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Beta-bourbonene is prized for its ability to enhance naturalness in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other terpenes and citrus notes, providing depth and complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to overpower delicate compositions if used excessively. It is often underutilized in formulations seeking a natural profile, offering opportunities for innovation in product development.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on beta-bourbonene is well-established in terms of its sensory characteristics and natural occurrence. However, specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data are less documented, reflecting industry-typical practices rather than explicit regulatory guidance. Known data gaps include precise odor thresholds and comprehensive safety evaluations across all regions.

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 19:26:22 GMT (p2)