FlavScents AInsights Entry for Octanal (Aldehyde C-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Octanal, Aldehyde C-8
• IUPAC Name: Octanal
• CAS Number: 124-13-0
• FEMA Number: 2805
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.015
• Molecular Formula: C8H16O
• Molecular Weight: 128.21 g/mol

Octanal is a saturated aliphatic aldehyde characterized by a straight-chain structure. The functional group aldehyde is crucial for its odor profile, contributing to its characteristic citrus-like scent. The structure-odor relationship is significant as the aldehyde group is known for imparting fresh, green, and citrus notes, which are highly valued in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Octanal is known for its distinctive citrus, fruity, and slightly fatty odor, often described as reminiscent of oranges or lemons. It possesses a moderate to strong intensity and is considered an impact note in formulations. The odor threshold of octanal is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. It is typically used to impart freshness and enhance the realism of citrus profiles in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Octanal naturally occurs in various citrus oils, such as orange and lemon, and is also found in other fruits like apples and grapes. It can form through the oxidative degradation of unsaturated fatty acids, a process that can occur during the ripening of fruits or through enzymatic pathways. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Octanal is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in citrus, fruity, and floral categories. It serves as an impact note, providing a fresh and zesty character. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. Octanal is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or oxidative environments, necessitating careful formulation considerations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, octanal is utilized across various families, including citrus, floral, and green. It acts as a top note, contributing freshness and vibrancy. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts up to 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for top note applications, providing an initial burst of freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Octanal is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 02.015.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards for flavor use.
• Asia: In Japan, octanal is permitted for use in flavors; similar approvals exist in China and ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in countries like Brazil under MERCOSUR regulations.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are prevalent, though formulators should verify specific country requirements due to potential variability.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, octanal is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI limits, with a wide margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is generally low risk, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Octanal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, citrus character, enhancing the realism of flavor and fragrance profiles. It synergizes well with other citrus and fruity notes but can be overpowering if overused. Common pitfalls include excessive use leading to a harsh or synthetic perception. It is often under-utilized in non-citrus applications where it can add a subtle freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on octanal is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some variability in natural occurrence data may exist. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, with clear guidelines in major markets.

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 2026-09-01 07:22:27 GMT (p2)