AInsights Entry for 12-methyl tridecanal (CAS: 75853-49-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 12-methyl tridecanal
• IUPAC Name: 12-methyltridecanal
• CAS Number: 75853-49-5
• FEMA Number: Data not found
• Other Identifiers: Data not found
• Molecular Formula: C14H28O
• Molecular Weight: 212.37 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: 12-methyl tridecanal is an aldehyde, which is a functional group known for contributing to the characteristic fatty, waxy, and citrus-like odors in fragrance and flavor applications. The presence of the aldehyde group is crucial for its odor profile, providing a distinct note that can be used to enhance or modify other scents and flavors.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

• Odor and Flavor Descriptors: 12-methyl tridecanal is characterized by a fatty, waxy odor with citrus undertones. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and a smooth diffusion, making it suitable for both flavor and fragrance applications.
• Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific threshold data not found. However, aldehydes typically have low odor thresholds, indicating that even small concentrations can be perceptible.
• Typical Sensory Role: This compound is often used as an impact note or a modifier in formulations, providing a fatty, citrus-like character that can enhance the realism and complexity of a scent or flavor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

• Known Natural Sources: 12-methyl tridecanal is not commonly found in nature and is typically synthesized for use in industrial applications.
• Formation Pathways: It can be synthesized through the oxidation of corresponding alcohols or through the hydroformylation of alkenes followed by hydrogenation.
• Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: Due to its synthetic origin, 12-methyl tridecanal is not typically classified as a natural flavor or fragrance component.

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

4. Use in Flavors

• Flavor Categories and Applications: Used in citrus, fruity, and fatty flavor profiles, 12-methyl tridecanal can enhance the authenticity and depth of these flavors.
• Functional Role in Flavor Systems: Acts as a modifier or impact note, providing a fatty, citrus-like character.
• Typical Use Levels: Specific ppm ranges not clearly reported. Industry-typical use levels are estimated to be in the low ppm range, given the potency of aldehydes.
• Stability Considerations: Aldehydes can be sensitive to oxidation and may degrade under high heat or extreme pH conditions, which should be considered during formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

• Fragrance Families and Product Types: Commonly used in citrus, floral, and green fragrance families. Suitable for use in perfumes, soaps, and detergents.
• Functional Role: Serves as a trace realism note or modifier, enhancing the freshness and complexity of a fragrance.
• Typical Concentration Ranges: Typically used at low concentrations due to its potent odor profile.
• Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: As an aldehyde, it contributes primarily to the top notes of a fragrance, providing an initial burst of freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Data not found
• European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number status): Data not found
• United Kingdom (post-Brexit alignment or divergence): Data not found
• Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Data not found
• Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): Data not found

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found. As with many aldehydes, use in flavors should be carefully controlled to avoid potential toxicity.
• Dermal Exposure: Potential for irritation or sensitization exists, typical of aldehydes. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use levels in fragrances.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure, particularly in occupational settings. Adequate ventilation and protective measures are recommended.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

• Why This Material is Valuable: Provides a unique fatty, citrus-like note that can enhance both flavor and fragrance profiles.
• Typical Synergies: Pairs well with other citrus and floral notes to enhance freshness and complexity.
• Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering or unbalanced profile due to its potent odor.
• Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-Used: Often under-used in formulations seeking a subtle, natural citrus enhancement.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

• Well-Established Data: Limited due to the synthetic nature and niche application of the compound.
• Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Use levels and sensory roles are often based on industry experience rather than published data.
• Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Lack of specific regulatory and safety data highlights the need for cautious application and adherence to general aldehyde safety guidelines.

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 2026-03-12 11:09:30 GMT (p2)