FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-hexoxy-5-pentyl tetrahydrofuran (CAS: 78054-02-1)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Not widely known by common names.
- IUPAC Name: 2-hexoxy-5-pentyl tetrahydrofuran
- CAS Number: 78054-02-1
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C15H28O2
- Molecular Weight: 240.38 g/mol
2-hexoxy-5-pentyl tetrahydrofuran is a synthetic compound characterized by its tetrahydrofuran ring, which is substituted with hexoxy and pentyl groups. The presence of these alkyl chains contributes to its hydrophobic nature and influences its volatility and odor profile. The functional groups present in this compound are crucial for its interaction with olfactory receptors, impacting its sensory characteristics.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
2-hexoxy-5-pentyl tetrahydrofuran is noted for its unique odor profile, which can be described as a blend of fruity and floral notes with a subtle woody undertone. The intensity of its aroma is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in complex fragrance compositions. The diffusion of this compound is relatively slow, allowing it to linger and provide a lasting scent impression. Specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its role as a modifier suggests it is used in low concentrations to enhance or round out other notes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
2-hexoxy-5-pentyl tetrahydrofuran is not known to occur naturally and is typically synthesized for use in flavor and fragrance applications. Its formation involves chemical synthesis pathways that incorporate the tetrahydrofuran ring structure with specific alkyl substitutions. Due to its synthetic origin, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under current regulatory definitions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
This compound is utilized in flavor formulations primarily for its ability to impart subtle fruity and floral notes. It finds application in categories such as confectionery, beverages, and dairy products, where it serves as a background realism enhancer. Typical use levels in finished products are not explicitly documented, but industry practices suggest concentrations in the range of 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product matrix. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions, though care should be taken to avoid excessive heat which may lead to degradation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, 2-hexoxy-5-pentyl tetrahydrofuran is valued for its ability to add depth and complexity to floral and woody compositions. It is commonly used in fine fragrances, personal care products, and household items. Its functional role can vary from a trace realism enhancer to a significant impact note, depending on the formulation. Typical concentration ranges are from 0.01% to 0.1% in the final product. The compound contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general safety and labeling requirements.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: Limited specific data; general safety compliance required.
- Latin America: No specific data; general safety compliance required.
The regulatory landscape for 2-hexoxy-5-pentyl tetrahydrofuran is characterized by a lack of explicit approvals, necessitating reliance on harmonized safety assumptions and industry best practices.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Data not found for ADI or MSDI; usage should be guided by industry norms and safety assessments.
- Dermal Exposure: No specific data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance applications.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered.
The risk profile for 2-hexoxy-5-pentyl tetrahydrofuran does not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications, though exposure routes and concentrations will vary.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
2-hexoxy-5-pentyl tetrahydrofuran is valued for its ability to subtly enhance and modify existing flavor and fragrance profiles. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, providing a smooth transition between different scent or taste layers. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or unbalanced profile. It is often underutilized in formulations seeking a nuanced complexity.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data available for 2-hexoxy-5-pentyl tetrahydrofuran is primarily industry-typical, with some gaps in specific regulatory and toxicological information. While sensory and formulation insights are well-documented, regulatory ambiguities necessitate careful compliance checks.
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 2026-06-24 13:32:55 GMT (p2)