Raspberry ketone is a natural phenolic compound found in red raspberries (Rubus idaeus) and other fruits. It is used primarily in fragrances and flavorings due to its sweet, fruity aroma, which resembles that of raspberries. Raspberry ketone is also marketed as a dietary supplement, purported to aid in weight loss and metabolic health, although scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The chemical composition of raspberry ketone includes:

Phenolic Compound: Raspberry ketone is a phenolic compound with the molecular formula C10H12O3. It is characterized by its distinctive aromatic properties.

The structure of raspberry ketone is characterized by:

Phenyl Group: A benzene ring (C6H5) attached to a carbonyl group (–C=O), with an additional hydroxyl group (–OH) contributing to its aromatic and biological properties.
Molecular Formula: C10H12O3. The structure features a phenyl group bonded to a carbonyl group and a hydroxyl group, contributing to its characteristic sweet and fruity aroma.

Physical Properties

Raspberry ketone typically appears as a white to pale yellow crystalline powder. It has a strong, sweet, and fruity odor similar to fresh raspberries. The compound is soluble in alcohol and oils but has limited solubility in water. It has a relatively high melting point and boiling point compared to many other fragrance compounds.

Production Process

The production process for raspberry ketone involves:

Extraction: Raspberry ketone can be extracted from natural sources, such as raspberries, through steam distillation or solvent extraction. However, the quantities obtained from natural sources are relatively small.
Synthesis: Raspberry ketone can be synthetically produced from more readily available precursors in the laboratory. This involves chemical reactions where synthetic pathways replicate the structure and properties of the naturally occurring compound.
Purification: The extracted or synthesized raspberry ketone is purified to remove impurities and ensure that the final product meets quality standards.
Formulation: The purified raspberry ketone is then incorporated into various products, including fragrances, flavorings, and dietary supplements.

Applications

Raspberry ketone is used in:

Fragrances: Included in perfumes and scented products to impart a sweet, fruity raspberry aroma.
Flavorings: Added to food and beverage products to provide a raspberry-like flavor.
Cosmetics: Used in personal care products to enhance fragrance.
Dietary Supplements: Marketed as a weight loss supplement, although scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for this purpose is limited.

Safety

Raspberry ketone is generally regarded as safe for use in fragrances, flavorings, and cosmetics when used in recommended concentrations. It should be handled according to safety guidelines to prevent any potential irritation. The safety of raspberry ketone as a dietary supplement is less well-established, and individuals should consult healthcare professionals before use.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

The production of raspberry ketone should follow environmentally responsible practices to minimize its impact. Whether sourced naturally or synthesized, efficient methods should be employed to reduce waste. Proper handling, labeling, and safety measures are essential to ensure safe use in its various applications.

INCI


Fragrance. It plays a very important role in the formulation of cosmetic products as it provides the possibility of enhancing, masking or adding fragrance to the final product, increasing its marketability. It is able to create a perceptible pleasant odour, masking a bad smell. The consumer always expects to find a pleasant or distinctive scent in a cosmetic product.

Perfuming. Unlike fragrance, which can also contain slightly less pleasant or characteristic odours, the term perfume indicates only very pleasant fragrances. Used for perfumes and aromatic raw materials.
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