FlavScents AInsights Entry for Paraldehyde (CAS: 123-63-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Paraldehyde
• IUPAC Name: 2,4,6-Trimethyl-1,3,5-trioxane
• CAS Number: 123-63-7
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not applicable
• Molecular Formula: C6H12O3
• Molecular Weight: 132.16 g/mol

Paraldehyde is a cyclic trimer of acetaldehyde, characterized by its three-membered ether ring structure. This structure contributes to its distinct odor profile, which is relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Paraldehyde is known for its pungent, ether-like odor with sweet undertones. It is often described as having a medicinal or camphoraceous character. The intensity of its odor is moderate to strong, making it a potential impact note in formulations. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, its sensory role typically involves adding complexity and depth to compositions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Paraldehyde does not occur naturally in significant quantities and is primarily synthesized through the polymerization of acetaldehyde. This reaction is typically catalyzed by acid, resulting in the formation of the cyclic trimer. Due to its synthetic origin, paraldehyde does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Paraldehyde is used in flavor formulations to impart a unique ether-like note. It is occasionally employed in confectionery and certain alcoholic beverages to enhance complexity. Typical use levels in finished products are not well-documented, but industry estimates suggest low ppm levels, often below 10 ppm, due to its potent odor. Paraldehyde is relatively stable under typical flavor formulation conditions but may degrade under extreme pH or heat.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, paraldehyde is used to introduce a medicinal or camphoraceous note, often in niche or avant-garde perfumes. It can serve as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the top or middle notes due to its volatility. Typical concentration ranges are qualitative, with usage generally at trace levels to avoid overpowering the composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Paraldehyde is not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is not restricted by IFRA.
• European Union: Not listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited data available; not commonly used in regulated flavor or fragrance applications.
• Latin America: Specific regulatory status not well-documented; assumed to follow general international guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Paraldehyde is not commonly used in food applications, and specific ADI or MSDI values are not established. Its use should be approached with caution due to its potent nature.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe in low concentrations for fragrance use, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatile nature requires careful handling in occupational settings to avoid excessive inhalation.

Risk profiles differ between food and fragrance applications, with more stringent considerations for oral exposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Paraldehyde is valued for its ability to impart a distinctive ether-like note, adding complexity to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other aldehydes and can enhance the medicinal character of a composition. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as it can easily dominate a blend if overused. It is often under-utilized due to its strong odor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on paraldehyde is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, specific usage levels and regulatory approvals are less documented, reflecting industry-typical practices rather than explicit guidelines. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological evaluations and comprehensive regulatory listings.

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
• Section 5a is not applicable as paraldehyde is a single compound

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 2026-02-04 08:27:26 GMT (p2)