Molasses, blackstrap (CAS 8052-35-5) — Sweet Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Sweet · Balsamic

Molasses, blackstrap

CAS 8052-35-5

Origin
natural
Note
Base
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Molasses, blackstrap?

Blackstrap molasses is a thick, dark syrup produced during sugar refining. People encounter it in baking, rum production, and some savory dishes. This byproduct carries concentrated flavors from sugarcane processing. In perfumery, molasses adds a deep, caramelized sweetness that evolves beautifully in oriental and gourmand fragrances. Its complex profile bridges sweet and savory notes.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Food-grade material
✓ No known allergens
CAS
8052-35-5
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Sweet · Balsamic
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Molasses, blackstrap Smell Like?

Blackstrap molasses bursts with an intense, almost burnt caramel richness – imagine dark brown sugar reduced to its most primal form. The top notes carry a slightly bitter, medicinal edge that quickly mellows into sticky dates and prunes. As it dries, a savory umami character emerges, like soy sauce reduction with hints of licorice and iron. The base reveals a lingering tobacco-like depth that adds weight to fragrance compositions.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Fève Délicieuse(Dior, 2015)

Used for its caramelized depth that amplifies the vanilla-tonka accord, adding a bittersweet counterpoint to the gourmand structure.

Tabacco Toscano(Santa Maria Novella, 2012)

Provides molasses’ characteristic iron-like nuance that enhances the tobacco leaf illusion, creating a cured tobacco effect.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Blackstrap molasses is a complex mixture containing sucrose (30-40%), invert sugars (15-25%), and non-sugar organic compounds including polyphenols, melanoidins, and amino acids. The characteristic aroma develops through Maillard reactions during sugar processing at high temperatures. Key odorants include furfural, maltol, and various pyrazines that contribute to its caramelized, sometimes smoky profile.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceDark brown viscous liquid
SolubilityWater-soluble

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Low (hours-days)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Adds gourmand depth
Home Fragrance1-3%Up to 8%Creates warm, comforting accords

Classic Accords

+ Vanilla + Tonka = Gourmand + Rum + Oak = Caribbean + Leather + Birch Tar = Smoky

Tip: Balance with citrus top notes to prevent cloying sweetness in gourmand compositions.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Caramel Furanone CAS 33501-92-5

Synthetic alternative for controlled caramel notes without molasses’ savory aspects.

2
Maltol CAS 118-71-8

Provides pure caramel sweetness when molasses’ complexity isn’t needed.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No restrictions – exempt from IFRA standards as food material

RIFM Assessment

Considered safe for fragrance use based on food safety data.

Sustainability

As a byproduct of sugar production, blackstrap molasses represents efficient resource utilization. Its use in perfumery adds value to what would otherwise be animal feed or industrial fermentation feedstock. Sourcing should prioritize suppliers with responsible sugarcane farming practices.

Explore Molasses, blackstrap

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References

  1. Asikin et al. (2014). Compositional Study of Molasses. Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry. DOI:10.1021/jf500460q

Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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Ingredient Data Sheet

CAS 8052-35-5
Data Sources & Attribution
Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.

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