AInsights Entry for Ethoxycitronellal (CAS: 3613-33-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Ethoxycitronellal
• IUPAC Name: 3,7-Dimethyloct-6-en-1-al, ethoxy-
• CAS Number: 3613-33-0
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C12H24O2
• Molecular Weight: 200.32 g/mol

Ethoxycitronellal is a synthetic compound characterized by the presence of an aldehyde group and an ether linkage. Its structure contributes to its distinctive odor profile, which is often described as floral and citrus-like. The functional groups present in ethoxycitronellal are crucial for its olfactory properties, making it a valuable ingredient in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ethoxycitronellal is known for its fresh, floral, and citrus-like odor, reminiscent of lily of the valley and lemon. It is often used as an impact note in fragrance compositions due to its strong diffusion and moderate intensity. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable scent even at minimal concentrations. In flavor applications, it is used sparingly to add a subtle citrus nuance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethoxycitronellal does not occur naturally and is synthesized for use in industrial applications. It is typically produced through the ethoxylation of citronellal, a process that involves the reaction of citronellal with ethylene oxide. This synthetic origin means that ethoxycitronellal does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Ethoxycitronellal is utilized in flavor formulations primarily for its ability to impart a fresh, citrus-like note. It is commonly found in citrus and floral flavor categories, enhancing the overall profile of beverages, candies, and baked goods. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the complexity of the flavor system. The compound is stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, ethoxycitronellal is a versatile ingredient used across various fragrance families, including floral, citrus, and green. It serves as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are between 0.1% and 1%. Its volatility allows it to provide an initial burst of freshness, which is complemented by more persistent base notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Ethoxycitronellal is not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA, but it is used in compliance with general safety standards.
• European Union: It is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, with specific use restrictions in place.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align closely with EU standards, maintaining similar restrictions.
• Asia: In Japan and China, ethoxycitronellal is permitted for use in flavors and fragrances, subject to local safety evaluations.
• Latin America: Brazil and MERCOSUR countries allow its use, with adherence to international safety guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Ethoxycitronellal is generally considered safe for use in both flavors and fragrances when used within recommended limits.

• Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI values are available, but it is used at low concentrations in food products.
• Dermal Exposure: It may cause mild irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, and its use in fragrances is subject to IFRA guidelines.
• Inhalation Exposure: As a volatile compound, it poses minimal risk under normal use conditions, but occupational exposure should be managed to prevent irritation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ethoxycitronellal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, floral-citrus note, making it a popular choice in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other floral and citrus ingredients, enhancing their overall impact. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to overpower delicate compositions if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can add depth and realism.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ethoxycitronellal is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. However, specific toxicological data, such as ADI values, are not clearly reported, necessitating reliance on industry-typical practices and safety assessments.

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 2026-09-14 17:00:01 GMT (p2)