What is 1,5,5,9-tetramethyl-13-oxatricyclo(8.3.0.0(4,9))tridecane?
1,5,5,9-tetramethyl-13-oxatricyclo(8.3.0.0(4,9))tridecane, identified by CAS Number 6790-58-5, is a synthetic organic chemical belonging to the class of polycyclic compounds. Its complex chemical structure contains a tricyclic ring system with an oxygen-containing heterocycle and multiple methyl substituents. This compound is classified as a flavoring agent and flavor enhancer in food applications.
Common Uses
This additive is used in the food industry primarily as a flavoring agent to provide or enhance taste characteristics in various food products. The specific sensory profile and applications of this particular compound are limited in published literature. Like other synthetic flavor compounds, it would typically be used in very small concentrations to achieve desired flavor effects. The compound may be found in processed foods, beverages, or other products where flavor modification is desired, though its use appears to be specialized or limited in scope compared to more common food flavorings.
Safety Assessment
According to FDA records, there have been zero adverse events reported associated with this additive and zero recalls linked to its use. However, the absence of reported adverse events does not necessarily indicate extensive safety data, as it may reflect limited market use or reporting patterns rather than comprehensive safety evaluation.
The additive has not been designated as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA, which means it does not have formal approval through either the GRAS notification process or as a direct food additive. This status suggests that either the manufacturer has not sought GRAS approval, the approval process is ongoing, or the compound has not accumulated the level of acceptance and use history required for such designation.
Publicly available toxicological data on this specific compound appears limited. Safety assessments of synthetic flavor compounds typically evaluate acute and chronic toxicity, genotoxicity, and potential allergenicity. Without access to proprietary safety dossiers or published research specific to this compound, a comprehensive independent safety evaluation cannot be provided based on publicly available information.
Regulatory Status
In the United States, this compound does not have GRAS status. Its regulatory status in other jurisdictions such as the European Union or other countries is not definitively established in this summary. In the EU, food flavorings are regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, and approved flavoring substances are listed in the Community list of flavoring substances.
The lack of GRAS approval in the United States suggests that any lawful use would require either individual food additive approval or operation under a different regulatory framework. Manufacturers seeking to use this additive in food products would need to establish appropriate regulatory pathways before commercial application.
Key Studies
Publicly available peer-reviewed research specifically examining the safety or sensory properties of 1,5,5,9-tetramethyl-13-oxatricyclo(8.3.0.0(4,9))tridecane is not readily identified in major scientific databases. This may reflect the compound's specialized use, limited commercial adoption, or proprietary research conducted by manufacturers.
For comprehensive safety information, review of confidential safety dossiers submitted to regulatory agencies or direct contact with manufacturers would be necessary. Regulatory agencies such as the FDA maintain detailed safety records that may not be fully accessible through public databases.