AInsights Entry for Amber Decane (CAS: 58567-11-6)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Amber Decane
- IUPAC Name: Decane
- CAS Number: 58567-11-6
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C10H22
- Molecular Weight: 142.29 g/mol
- Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Amber decane is a saturated hydrocarbon with a linear alkane structure. Its lack of functional groups typically results in low odor intensity, but it can contribute to the overall olfactory profile in complex mixtures.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Amber decane is characterized by a subtle, waxy odor with a faintly sweet undertone. It is not typically used for its own scent but can enhance the diffusion and longevity of other fragrance components. The odor threshold is not well-documented, reflecting its minor role in sensory applications. In formulations, it often serves as a background note, providing a smooth, cohesive base that supports more prominent scents.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Amber decane is not commonly found in nature as a distinct entity but can be a minor component in petroleum and natural gas. It is primarily produced through industrial processes such as the fractional distillation of crude oil. Its presence in natural products is typically incidental, and it does not contribute to "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Amber decane is rarely used as a direct flavoring agent due to its low sensory impact. However, it may be present in trace amounts in flavor formulations as a solvent or carrier. Typical use levels are not well-documented, but when used, concentrations are generally below 10 ppm in finished products. It is stable under typical food processing conditions, including heat and varying pH levels.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, amber decane is used as a diluent or blending agent. It is found in various fragrance families, particularly those requiring a smooth, non-intrusive base. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to about 1% in finished products. Its volatility is low, contributing to the base notes of a fragrance composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not specifically listed by FEMA as GRAS for flavor use.
- European Union: Not assigned an FL number under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: Limited specific regulatory information; generally follows international guidelines.
- Latin America: No specific regulations identified; typically aligns with international standards.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Not typically used in flavors; thus, specific ADI or MSDI values are not established.
- Dermal Exposure: Considered low risk for irritation or sensitization; not restricted by IFRA.
- Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk; occupational exposure is minimal.
Overall, amber decane presents a low safety risk in both food and fragrance applications due to its low usage levels and minimal toxicity.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Amber decane is valued for its ability to act as a neutral carrier or diluent in formulations, enhancing the stability and diffusion of more volatile components. It synergizes well with other alkanes and can help balance the volatility profile of a fragrance. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as excessive amounts can lead to a waxy, non-distinct scent profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on amber decane is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and basic sensory profile. However, specific usage data in flavors and fragrances is less documented, reflecting its minor role. Regulatory and safety information is consistent with industry norms for similar compounds.
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 2026-03-30 17:15:04 GMT (p2)