FlavScents AInsights Entry for Decanal (Aldehyde C-10)
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 No. 02.013
- 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 fatty, 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 strong, citrusy, and slightly waxy odor, reminiscent of orange peel. It is often described as having a fresh, aldehydic character with moderate diffusion and intensity. In flavor applications, decanal imparts a citrusy note that can enhance the freshness and realism of fruit flavors. The odor threshold of decanal 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 is also found in coriander and ginger. The compound can form through the oxidation of corresponding alcohols or via the degradation of fatty acids. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Decanal is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in citrus and fruity profiles. It serves as an impact note, providing a fresh and zesty character. Typical use levels in food and beverages range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the complexity of the flavor system. Decanal is stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to air, necessitating careful formulation considerations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In perfumery, decanal is utilized in citrus, floral, and aldehydic fragrance families. It acts as a top note, contributing freshness and lift to compositions. Typical concentrations in fragrance products range from trace amounts to 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for top note applications, where it provides an initial burst of freshness.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
- European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 02.013.
- United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions varying by country.
- Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in countries like Brazil.
Decanal is widely approved for use in both flavors and fragrances, with harmonized regulations across many regions. However, formulators should verify specific country requirements to ensure compliance.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Decanal is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety precautions.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Decanal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, citrusy note that enhances the realism of both flavor and fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other citrus and aldehydic compounds, but care must be taken to avoid overpowering the formulation. Common pitfalls include using excessive amounts, which can lead to a harsh or soapy character. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can add depth and brightness.
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 regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Overall, the confidence in the data quality is high, with no significant gaps identified.
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 2026-03-21 09:07:28 GMT (p2)