FlavScents AInsights Entry for Gamma-Decalactone (CAS: 706-14-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Gamma-decalactone
• IUPAC Name: 5-Butyl-4-methyloxolan-2-one
• CAS Number: 706-14-9
• FEMA Number: 2360
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.017
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 170.25 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure-Odor Relevance: Gamma-decalactone is a lactone, characterized by a cyclic ester structure. The presence of the butyl and methyl groups contributes to its fruity, peach-like aroma, which is significant in flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Gamma-decalactone is renowned for its sweet, fruity aroma reminiscent of peaches and apricots. It exhibits a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties, making it a popular choice for imparting a juicy, ripe fruit character in both flavors and fragrances. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations. Typically, gamma-decalactone serves as an impact note, providing a distinct fruity top note that enhances the overall sensory profile of a formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Gamma-decalactone naturally occurs in various fruits, including peaches, apricots, and strawberries. It is formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, specifically the beta-oxidation of ricinoleic acid. This compound is often used to achieve a "natural flavor" designation due to its presence in many edible fruits and its derivation from natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Gamma-decalactone is widely used in the flavor industry, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as beverages, candies, and dairy items. It functions as a key impact note, providing a realistic peach or apricot flavor. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with lower concentrations used for subtle background notes and higher concentrations for more pronounced fruity flavors. It 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

In the fragrance industry, gamma-decalactone is utilized in fruity and floral compositions, often in products like perfumes, body sprays, and lotions. It acts as a modifier, enhancing the fruity aspects of a fragrance blend. Concentration ranges vary, but it is typically used at low levels to avoid overpowering other notes. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 09.017.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized regulations aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Gamma-decalactone is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance products is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices. The risk profiles are similar across food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Gamma-decalactone is valued for its ability to impart a natural, juicy fruit character. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an artificial or cloying aroma. It is often under-utilized in savory applications, where it can add a subtle sweetness and depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on gamma-decalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and safety profiles documented in authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented use levels, though some regional regulatory nuances may exist. No significant data gaps or ambiguities are noted.

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

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 2026-02-05 11:56:27 GMT (p2)