4-(2-butenylidene)-3,5,5-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-one

4-(2-butenylidene)-3,5,5-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-one is a synthetic flavoring compound with the CAS number 13215-88-8. It belongs to the class of organic molecules known as unsaturated ketones and contains a cyclohexene ring structure with a butenyl side chain. This compound is produced through chemical synthesis rather than isolation from natural sources, though its structure may resemble compounds found in nature.

This additive functions as a flavoring agent or flavoring adjuvant in food products. Flavoring agents are used in small quantities to impart or enhance taste and aroma characteristics in processed foods, beverages, confections, and other food applications. The specific sensory profile this compound provides—likely fruity, floral, or woody notes given its chemical structure—determines its application in particular food categories. However, detailed information about specific food applications and concentration levels used is limited in publicly available databases.

The FDA has received zero adverse event reports associated with this additive, and no product recalls have been linked to its use. This lack of reported safety incidents suggests that if the compound is being used in food, it has not generated consumer health concerns that reached regulatory attention.

However, the absence of adverse reports does not constitute formal safety approval. The additive has not achieved GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status with the FDA, which means it has not undergone the rigorous safety review process required for unrestricted use in foods. GRAS status typically requires either prior safe use history in food before 1958, or a formal petition with supporting toxicological and safety data submitted to the FDA.

Limited published scientific literature is available on the toxicological properties of this specific compound. Standard safety assessments for flavoring agents typically evaluate acute toxicity, subchronic toxicity, genotoxicity, and potential allergenicity. Without access to comprehensive safety data, the complete safety profile remains incompletely characterized.

In the United States, this compound does not have GRAS status. This means any food manufacturer wishing to use it would need to either demonstrate a history of safe use prior to 1958, or submit a Food Additive Petition to the FDA with supporting safety data. The lack of GRAS status limits its legal use in mainstream food products in the United States.

International regulatory status varies by country. The European Union's approach to flavoring substances involves evaluation through the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), and inclusion on approved flavoring lists. This compound's status in EU regulations should be verified through the current FLAVIS database for comprehensive international information.

Publicly available peer-reviewed studies specifically evaluating 4-(2-butenylidene)-3,5,5-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-one are limited. Safety data may exist in proprietary industry toxicology reports or FDA submissions that are not publicly disclosed. Any manufacturer seeking approval would need to generate or compile relevant safety studies including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) data, as well as standard toxicology testing protocols.

For consumers and manufacturers seeking detailed safety information, direct contact with regulatory agencies or review of specific food additive petitions (if filed) would provide the most current and comprehensive data.