FlavScents AInsights Entry for Diethyl Sebacate (CAS: 110-40-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Diethyl sebacate
• IUPAC Name: Diethyl decanedioate
• CAS Number: 110-40-7
• FEMA Number: 2373
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.037
• Molecular Formula: C14H26O4
• Molecular Weight: 258.35 g/mol

Diethyl sebacate is an ester derived from sebacic acid and ethanol. Its structure features two ethyl ester groups, contributing to its characteristic odor profile. The ester functional group is crucial for its application in both flavors and fragrances, providing a fruity and slightly floral aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Diethyl sebacate is characterized by a mild, fruity odor with subtle floral undertones. It is often described as having a sweet, slightly waxy scent that can enhance the complexity of a fragrance or flavor composition. The compound's diffusion is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in formulations. Specific odor and taste thresholds are not well-documented, but its sensory impact is generally considered subtle and supportive rather than dominant.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Diethyl sebacate is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through the esterification of sebacic acid with ethanol. This reaction is typically catalyzed by acid, facilitating the formation of the ester bond. While not naturally occurring, its synthetic origin does not preclude its use in "natural" flavor or fragrance designations, provided it meets regulatory criteria for such labeling.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Diethyl sebacate is utilized in various flavor categories, including fruit, confectionery, and beverage applications. It serves as a functional modifier, enhancing the overall profile by adding depth and complexity. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering waxy note. Its stability under heat and acidic conditions makes it a versatile component in flavor systems.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, diethyl sebacate is employed across multiple fragrance families, including floral, fruity, and gourmand. It acts as a modifier, providing a soft, sweet undertone that enhances the realism of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges are from 0.1% to 1% in the final product, depending on the desired intensity. Its moderate volatility allows it to contribute to both the middle and base notes of a fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 09.037.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted under MERCOSUR regulations, with country-specific guidelines.

Diethyl sebacate is widely approved for use in both flavors and fragrances, with harmonized regulations across major markets. However, formulators should verify specific regional requirements to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Diethyl sebacate is considered safe for consumption at typical flavor use levels, with no specific ADI established. Its low toxicity profile supports its GRAS status.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing, making it suitable for use in personal care products.
• Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility minimizes inhalation risks, though occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.

The risk profile for diethyl sebacate is consistent across food and fragrance applications, with no significant safety concerns identified at typical use levels.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Diethyl sebacate is valued for its ability to enhance the complexity and depth of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity notes, providing a smooth, cohesive profile. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as excessive concentrations can lead to a waxy, overpowering scent. It is often underutilized in formulations seeking subtlety and nuance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on diethyl sebacate is well-established, with comprehensive regulatory and safety evaluations supporting its use. While specific sensory thresholds are not extensively documented, industry practices provide reliable guidance for its application. Known data gaps are minimal, with ongoing research likely to refine its sensory and safety profiles further.

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 2026-02-10 10:49:07 GMT (p2)