FlavScents AInsights Entry for Fenchol (CAS: 1632-73-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Fenchol, also known as 1,3,3-Trimethyl-2-norbornanol, is a monoterpenoid alcohol with the CAS number 1632-73-1. It is recognized by the FEMA number 2481. The molecular formula of fenchol is C10H18O, and it has a molecular weight of 154.25 g/mol. Fenchol is characterized by its bicyclic structure, which includes a hydroxyl group that contributes to its odor profile. This structural feature is significant in its sensory perception, providing a camphoraceous and pine-like aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Fenchol is noted for its fresh, camphoraceous, and pine-like odor, often described as having a slightly earthy undertone. It is a potent compound with a moderate to high intensity, making it a valuable impact note in both flavor and fragrance formulations. The odor threshold of fenchol is relatively low, allowing it to impart its characteristic scent even at minimal concentrations. In flavor applications, it is used to enhance freshness and provide a natural, green note.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Fenchol is naturally found in various essential oils, including those of basil, lavender, and certain pine species. It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, which is common for many terpenoids. The presence of fenchol in these natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, depending on the context of its use.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, fenchol is utilized across a range of categories, including mint, herbal, and citrus profiles. It serves as a functional component to enhance freshness and add complexity to flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. Fenchol is generally stable under typical processing conditions, though it may be susceptible to oxidation if not properly stored.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Fenchol is employed in fragrance formulations for its fresh, camphoraceous qualities. It is commonly found in fragrance families such as fougère, woody, and herbal. Its role can vary from providing a trace realism to acting as a modifier or impact note. Fenchol is typically used in concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1% in fragrance compositions. It contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, fenchol is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, fenchol is approved for use in Japan and China, with specific guidelines varying by country. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR have harmonized regulations that generally align with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Fenchol is considered safe for use in both flavor and fragrance applications when used within recommended levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical usage levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is generally well-tolerated, though it is advisable to adhere to IFRA guidelines to prevent irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Fenchol is valued for its ability to impart freshness and complexity in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other terpenoids and can enhance the perception of naturalness in formulations. A common pitfall is overuse, which can lead to an overpowering camphoraceous note. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle, fresh character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on fenchol is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Overall, the confidence in the data quality is high, with minor gaps primarily in specific regional regulatory details.

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 2026-09-21 05:26:24 GMT (p2)