# Musk Ambrette

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> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/musk-ambrette-nlfg.md

**Safety rating:** CAUTION
**CAS number:** 83-66-9
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Musk Ambrette (CAS 83-66-9) is a synthetic aromatic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It belongs to the class of polycyclic musks and is employed to impart musky, ambery flavor notes in various food and beverage applications.

## 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 Musk Ambrette?

Musk Ambrette, chemically known as 4,6,7-trimethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one or 1(2H)-Naphthalenone, 4,6,7-trimethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-, is a synthetic fragrance compound with CAS number 83-66-9. It is classified as a polycyclic musk—a group of aromatic compounds that impart warm, musky scent characteristics. In the food industry, Musk Ambrette functions primarily as a flavoring agent or flavor adjuvant, contributing subtle musky and ambery notes to food and beverage formulations.

## Common Uses

Musk Ambrette has been utilized in the fragrance and flavor industry since its development in the mid-20th century. In food applications, it may be incorporated into:

- Confectionery products
- Beverages
- Baked goods
- Flavor blends and compositions
- Dairy products
- Culinary preparations requiring musky or ambery flavor profiles

The compound's primary appeal lies in its ability to enhance and round out complex flavor profiles, providing depth and sensory complexity to food formulations. However, its use has declined significantly over the past several decades due to regulatory restrictions and the development of alternative flavoring agents.

## Safety Assessment

According to FDA records, there have been zero adverse events reported in connection with Musk Ambrette, and no FDA recalls have been initiated for products containing this additive. However, it is important to note that Musk Ambrette has not been designated as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA, which reflects the evolving understanding of its safety profile.

Historically, polycyclic musks, including Musk Ambrette, have been subject to increasing scientific scrutiny. Studies conducted in the 1970s and 1980s raised concerns about potential photogenotoxic effects—specifically, the compound's ability to cause genetic damage when exposed to ultraviolet light under laboratory conditions. While these findings were based on in vitro studies and do not necessarily translate directly to human consumption risk at typical exposure levels, they prompted regulatory reconsideration.

The European Union has significantly restricted or banned many polycyclic musks, including Musk Ambrette, in cosmetic products due to these photogenotoxic concerns. This regulatory action reflects the precautionary approach adopted by European authorities regarding potential long-term exposure risks.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, Musk Ambrette is not listed on the FDA's GRAS inventory, meaning it does not have blanket approval for use in foods. Its regulatory status is complex: while not explicitly banned for food use, its non-GRAS status effectively limits its commercial application in the U.S. food industry. Manufacturers wishing to use this additive would need to submit a Food Additive Petition to the FDA for approval.

Globally, regulatory approaches vary. The European Union has restricted polycyclic musks in cosmetics and personal care products. Other jurisdictions maintain varying levels of restriction or prohibition. The widespread adoption of alternative synthetic musks and naturally-derived flavor compounds has further reduced commercial demand for Musk Ambrette.

## Key Studies

Scientific research on Musk Ambrette has primarily focused on its chemical stability, fragrance properties, and potential toxicological concerns:

- Early photogenotoxicity studies raised questions about UV-induced mutagenic potential
- Comparative analyses with other polycyclic musks informed regulatory decisions across different regions
- Bioaccumulation and persistence studies contributed to environmental concerns regarding persistent organic pollutants

These studies collectively influenced the regulatory landscape and market availability of Musk Ambrette in food flavoring applications worldwide.

## 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. "Musk Ambrette — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/musk-ambrette-nlfg. Accessed 2026-05-14.