FlavScents AInsights Entry: Hexyl Hexanoate (CAS: 6378-65-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Hexyl hexanoate, also known as hexyl caproate, is a chemical compound with the IUPAC name hexyl hexanoate. It is identified by the CAS number 6378-65-0. The compound does not have a FEMA number assigned. Other identifiers include its FL number and CoE number, which are used in various regulatory contexts. The molecular formula of hexyl hexanoate is C12H24O2, and it has a molecular weight of 200.32 g/mol. This ester is characterized by its functional groups, which include an ester linkage that contributes to its fruity odor profile, commonly associated with apple and pineapple notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Hexyl hexanoate is known for its pleasant fruity aroma, often described as reminiscent of apple, pineapple, and banana. It has a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it a popular choice for imparting a fresh, fruity character in both flavors and fragrances. The taste and odor thresholds for hexyl hexanoate are not well-documented, but it is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a distinct fruity top note that enhances the overall sensory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Hexyl hexanoate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples, bananas, and pineapples, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can be formed through enzymatic reactions in fruits or synthesized via esterification of hexanol and hexanoic acid. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Hexyl hexanoate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as beverages, candies, and baked goods. It serves as a key component in apple and pineapple flavor profiles, providing a fresh and authentic fruity note. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 50 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, hexyl hexanoate is utilized in a variety of product types, including perfumes, body sprays, and household products. It is often used in fruity and floral fragrance families, where it acts as a modifier or impact note to enhance the freshness and realism of the scent. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the product and desired effect. Hexyl hexanoate contributes primarily to the top note due to its volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, hexyl hexanoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, hexyl hexanoate is permitted for use in flavors, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also allow its use, with harmonized assumptions across the region.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Hexyl hexanoate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no specific ADI or MSDI established, but it is used within industry-typical levels. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, as supported by IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Hexyl hexanoate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial aroma. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance background realism.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on hexyl hexanoate is well-established, with consistent sensory and regulatory information available. While specific numeric thresholds are not always documented, industry practices provide reliable guidance. Some data gaps exist in detailed toxicological studies, but current usage levels are supported by historical safety records.

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 2026-03-24 07:12:35 GMT (p2)