FlavScents AInsights Entry for Decanal (Aldehyde C-10) (CAS: 112-31-2)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Decanal, Aldehyde C-10
- IUPAC Name: Decanal
- CAS Number: 112-31-2
- FEMA Number: 2362
- Other Identifiers: FL number 02.015, CoE number 63
- Molecular Formula: C10H20O
- Molecular Weight: 156.27 g/mol
Decanal is a saturated aliphatic aldehyde with a ten-carbon chain. Its structure is characterized by a terminal aldehyde group, which is crucial for its odor profile. The aldehyde group contributes to its distinctive citrus-like aroma, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Decanal is known for its fresh, citrusy, and slightly waxy odor, reminiscent of orange peel. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties. In flavor applications, decanal serves as an impact note, providing a bright, zesty character that enhances citrus profiles. Its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Decanal naturally occurs in the essential oils of citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons. It can also be formed through the oxidative degradation of fatty acids, particularly in the Maillard reaction during food processing. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, depending on the context of its use.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Decanal is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in citrus, fruity, and floral categories. It acts as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and brightness of citrus flavors. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to a waxy or soapy off-note. Decanal is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to air.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, decanal is utilized across various families, including citrus, floral, and aldehydic compositions. It serves as a top note, providing freshness and lift to the overall scent profile. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and character. Its volatility makes it an effective top note, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Decanal is approved for use as a flavoring agent under FEMA GRAS status.
- European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 02.015.
- 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: Recognized under MERCOSUR regulations, with harmonized assumptions across member countries.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Decanal has a high margin of safety when used within recommended flavor concentrations. No specific ADI has been established, but it is considered safe under FEMA GRAS guidelines.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally non-irritating at typical fragrance concentrations. IFRA standards provide guidance on safe use levels to prevent sensitization.
- Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces occupational exposure risks, but adequate ventilation is recommended in manufacturing settings.
Risk profiles are similar for both food and fragrance applications, with no significant differences noted.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Decanal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, citrusy character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral notes, enhancing overall brightness and realism. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate blends at higher concentrations, leading to undesirable waxy or soapy notes. It is often under-utilized in non-citrus applications where it can add a subtle lift.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on decanal is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some variability in natural occurrence data may exist due to differences in source material and processing methods.
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 2026-02-05 08:02:46 GMT (p2)