FlavScents AInsights Entry for (R)-delta-decalactone (CAS: 2825-91-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (R)-delta-decalactone
• IUPAC Name: (4R)-4-decanolide
• CAS Number: 2825-91-4
• FEMA Number: 2360
• Other Identifiers: FL number 09.010
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 170.25 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: (R)-delta-decalactone is a lactone, a cyclic ester, which contributes to its creamy, fruity odor profile. The presence of the lactone ring is crucial for its characteristic scent, often described as peach-like or coconut-like.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

• Odor and Flavor Descriptors: (R)-delta-decalactone is known for its creamy, fruity aroma reminiscent of peaches and coconut. It has a sweet, milky undertone that enhances its appeal in both flavor and fragrance applications.
• Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: The odor threshold is typically low, allowing it to impart noticeable aroma even at minimal concentrations.
• Typical Sensory Role: It serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a distinct fruity character that can enhance the overall sensory profile of a product.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

• Known Natural Sources: (R)-delta-decalactone is naturally found in various fruits, including peaches, apricots, and coconuts. It is also present in some dairy products.
• Formation Pathways: It can be formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids in fruits and dairy products, contributing to their characteristic aromas.
• Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: Due to its presence in natural sources, (R)-delta-decalactone can be labeled as a natural flavor or fragrance component when derived from these sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

• Flavor Categories and Applications: Commonly used in fruit-flavored products, dairy, and confectionery to impart a creamy, fruity note.
• Functional Role in Flavor Systems: Acts as a flavor enhancer and impact note, providing depth and authenticity to fruit and dairy flavors.
• Typical Use Levels: Documented use levels range from 1 to 20 ppm in finished products, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type.
• Stability Considerations: (R)-delta-decalactone is generally stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

• Fragrance Families and Product Types: Utilized in fruity, floral, and gourmand fragrance compositions.
• Functional Role: Serves as a modifier and impact note, adding creamy, fruity nuances to perfumes and personal care products.
• Typical Concentration Ranges: Used at concentrations ranging from trace amounts to 0.5% in fragrance formulations.
• Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: It is typically a middle note, providing lasting fruity and creamy characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Recognized as GRAS for flavor use by FEMA.
• European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number status): Approved for use as a flavoring substance.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Generally permitted, but specific regulations may vary by country.
• Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): Typically allowed, with adherence to local regulatory frameworks.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Considered safe for use in food products at typical concentrations, with a wide margin of safety.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing at typical fragrance concentrations.
• Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.
• Risk Profiles: Similar safety profiles for both food and fragrance applications, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

• Why This Material is Valuable: Offers a unique creamy, fruity aroma that is difficult to replicate with other compounds.
• Typical Synergies: Pairs well with other fruity and creamy notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the formulation.
• Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering aroma; balance is key.
• Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-used: Often under-utilized in non-fruit applications where its creamy note could add depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

• Well-Established Data: Comprehensive sensory and regulatory data available.
• Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Usage levels and synergies often based on industry experience.
• Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Limited specific data on long-term exposure effects.

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 2026-06-16 15:38:15 GMT (p2)