FlavScents AInsights Entry for Delta-Octalactone (CAS: 698-76-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Delta-octalactone, also known as 5-butyloxolan-2-one, is a single chemical compound with the CAS number 698-76-0. It is identified by the FEMA number 3655. The molecular formula for delta-octalactone is C8H14O2, and it has a molecular weight of 142.20 g/mol. This compound is characterized by its lactone functional group, which is crucial for its odor profile. The structure of delta-octalactone contributes to its creamy, coconut-like aroma, making it a valuable component in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Delta-octalactone is renowned for its creamy, coconut-like odor and flavor, often described as sweet and milky with a hint of fruitiness. It is a potent compound, with a low odor threshold that allows it to impart a strong sensory impact even at low concentrations. Typically, delta-octalactone is used as an impact note in formulations, providing a rich, creamy background that enhances the overall sensory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Delta-octalactone occurs naturally in various foods, including coconut, peach, and dairy products. It can form through the Maillard reaction or enzymatic degradation during food processing. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts, depending on its method of extraction and use.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Delta-octalactone is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in dairy, coconut, and tropical fruit flavors. It serves as a key impact note, providing creaminess and enhancing the richness of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor systems. 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 fragrance applications, delta-octalactone is used in various product types, including personal care products and household items. It contributes to fragrance families such as gourmand and tropical, acting as a modifier or impact note. Typical concentration ranges vary, but it is often used at low levels due to its potency. Delta-octalactone is primarily a middle note, providing a creamy, sweet character that enhances the overall fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, delta-octalactone is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. 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, regulatory acceptance varies, with Japan and China having specific guidelines for its use. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR have their own regulatory frameworks, often aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Delta-octalactone 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 adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. 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

Delta-octalactone is valued for its ability to impart a rich, creamy character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other lactones and creamy notes, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often under-utilized in non-dairy applications, where it can provide unexpected depth and richness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on delta-octalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and safety profiles documented in the literature. Industry practices are consistent with documented use levels, though some regional regulatory nuances may exist. Known data gaps are minimal, with ongoing research focusing on expanding its application potential.

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

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 2026-03-23 15:46:39 GMT (p2)