# Beta-ionol

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/beta-ionol
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/beta-ionol.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 22029-76-1
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Beta-ionol is a synthetic aromatic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It contributes woody and amber-like sensory characteristics to beverages, confections, and other processed foods.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Beta-ionol?

Beta-ionol (CAS Number: 22029-76-1) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the class of aromatic chemicals used in the flavor and fragrance industry. It is also known by its IUPAC name 2,6,10-trimethyl-6,9-undecadien-1-ol. The compound is characterized by a woody, warm, and slightly amber-like odor profile, making it valuable for creating complex flavor and aroma combinations in food applications.

## Common Uses

Beta-ionol is primarily employed as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry. Its applications include:

- Alcoholic beverages, where it contributes woody and warm notes
- Non-alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Confectionery and candy products
- Baked goods and desserts
- Dairy products
- Other processed foods requiring aromatic enhancement

The compound functions as a flavoring adjuvant, meaning it works in conjunction with other flavor compounds to enhance overall sensory profiles rather than serving as a primary flavor note.

## Safety Assessment

Beta-ionol has not been formally evaluated for GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status by the FDA. However, the absence of GRAS status does not indicate a safety concern; rather, it reflects that the compound may be used under FDA flavor regulations without requiring this specific designation.

According to available FDA records, there have been zero documented adverse events associated with beta-ionol consumption, and no food recalls have been linked to this additive. This absence of reported safety incidents, combined with its use in food applications across multiple jurisdictions, suggests a favorable safety profile.

The compound is structurally similar to naturally occurring terpene alcohols found in various plants and fruits, which may contribute to its general acceptance in food applications. Toxicological data on beta-ionol indicates low systemic toxicity in standard safety studies.

## Regulatory Status

Beta-ionol is permitted for use as a flavoring substance in various food categories under FDA regulations. It is recognized in the European Union under the flavor regulation framework and is included in flavor databases maintained by flavor industry associations.

The compound is subject to existing food additive regulations and labeling requirements in jurisdictions where it is used. Its use levels in food are typically very low, as is standard for flavor compounds, typically in the range of parts per million (ppm).

## Key Studies

While specific published safety studies exclusively dedicated to beta-ionol are limited in the public domain, the compound's safety profile has been evaluated within broader assessments of synthetic flavoring agents by organizations including the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA) and international flavor safety panels.

General toxicological studies on beta-ionol have evaluated acute toxicity, demonstrating low oral toxicity in animal models. The compound's lipophilic nature allows for reasonable absorption and metabolism, with elimination primarily through standard metabolic pathways.

As with many synthetic flavor compounds used in small quantities, comprehensive chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity studies may not be publicly available, though such evaluations are typically conducted during regulatory approval processes in major markets.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Beta-ionol — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/beta-ionol. Accessed 2026-05-19.