FlavScents AInsights Entry: Caprylic/Capric/Lauric Triglyceride (CAS: 68991-68-4)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Caprylic/capric/lauric triglyceride, commonly referred to as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), is a mixture of triglycerides derived from coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It is not a single compound but a blend of caprylic (C8), capric (C10), and lauric (C12) acid triglycerides. The CAS number for this material is 68991-68-4. It does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature. The molecular formula varies due to its mixture status, but individual components like caprylic acid have a formula of C10H20O2. The functional groups present include ester linkages, which are crucial for its role in flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Caprylic/capric/lauric triglyceride is generally odorless and tasteless, making it an ideal carrier and diluent in flavor and fragrance formulations. Its lack of sensory impact allows it to enhance the diffusion and longevity of other more volatile compounds without altering their inherent characteristics. It is primarily used as a background material to provide a smooth, non-interfering base.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
This triglyceride mixture is naturally found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It is typically produced through the fractionation of these oils, followed by esterification processes. The material is often used in products labeled as "natural" due to its derivation from natural sources, although the processing methods may affect this designation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, caprylic/capric/lauric triglyceride serves as a carrier oil, enhancing the solubility and stability of flavor compounds. It is used across various flavor categories, including bakery, dairy, and beverages. Typical use levels range from 100 to 1000 ppm, depending on the specific application and desired effect. It is valued for its stability under heat and acidic conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of food products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, this triglyceride mixture is used as a diluent and fixative. It is compatible with a wide range of fragrance families, including floral, citrus, and woody. Its role is primarily to stabilize and extend the release of volatile fragrance components. Typical concentration ranges are qualitative, often used in trace amounts to balance the overall fragrance profile. It contributes to the base note due to its low volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, caprylic/capric/lauric triglyceride is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food products. The European Union regulates it under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, where it is permitted as a food additive. In the UK, post-Brexit regulations align closely with the EU standards. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for its use in food and cosmetics, often aligning with international standards. In Latin America, regulations vary, but it is generally accepted in food and cosmetic applications.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Caprylic/capric/lauric triglyceride is considered safe for oral consumption, with no specific ADI established due to its GRAS status. Dermal exposure is also deemed safe, with low irritation and sensitization potential, making it suitable for cosmetic use. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with a high margin of safety.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
This material is highly valued for its versatility and stability. It synergizes well with both polar and non-polar compounds, enhancing the performance of active ingredients. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to a greasy texture in food applications. It is frequently under-utilized in fragrance formulations where its fixative properties could be beneficial.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on caprylic/capric/lauric triglyceride is well-established, with extensive documentation on its safety and applications. Industry practices are consistent, although specific use levels may vary. There are no significant data gaps, but ongoing research into its broader applications continues.
Citation hooks: FlavScents
QA Check
- All required sections 1–9 are present
- "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
- Flavor section includes ppm ranges
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)
About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.
Generated 2026-03-18 12:46:57 GMT (p2)