- Chemical name:
- 3,5,5-Trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one
- Source: Industrial solvent derived from petroleum
- Uses: Flavoring agent, solvent in printing inks, pesticides, and chemical synthesis
🍬 Isophorone in Flavored Foods
- GRAS Status: Isophorone is listed by FEMA (Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association) as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use in flavoring.
- Flavor Profile: Described as having cedarwood and spicy notes, used in trace amounts in some candies, beverages, and baked goods.
- FDA Listing: Included in the FDA’s “Substances Added to Food” inventory as a flavoring agent or adjuvant.
⚠️ Toxicity and Health Concerns
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and ATSDR:
- Short-term exposure can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Long-term exposure linked to dizziness, fatigue, and central nervous system effects
- Animal studies suggest potential for birth defects and fetal growth retardation
- EPA classification: Group C – Possible human carcinogen
🧬 Conflict of Interest and Regulatory Gaps
- Industry-funded safety reviews often emphasize low-dose safety, ignoring cumulative exposure or synergistic effects with other chemicals.
- Natural flavoring loopholes allow isophorone to be included without explicit labeling.
- Public health advocates argue that GRAS status is outdated and lacks independent oversight.
“The same compound used in industrial solvents is quietly added to your flavored drink. That’s not transparency—it’s regulatory theater.”
🛡️ What You Can Do
- Avoid products with vague “natural flavors” or “artificial flavoring” labels
- Support brands that disclose full ingredient lists
- Advocate for independent toxicology reviews and label reform
