FlavScents AInsights Entry for 5-ethyl-2-methyl nonanal (CAS: 68141-14-0)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): 5-ethyl-2-methyl nonanal
- IUPAC Name: 5-ethyl-2-methyl nonanal
- CAS Number: 68141-14-0
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C12H24O
- Molecular Weight: 184.32 g/mol
5-ethyl-2-methyl nonanal is an aldehyde characterized by its branched structure, which contributes to its unique odor profile. The presence of the aldehyde group is crucial for its reactivity and sensory properties, often imparting a green, citrus-like aroma that is valued in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
5-ethyl-2-methyl nonanal is known for its fresh, citrus-like odor with green and slightly floral undertones. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it suitable for use as an impact note in both flavors and fragrances. The compound's odor threshold is not clearly reported, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
5-ethyl-2-methyl nonanal is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for use in industrial applications. Its formation is typically achieved through chemical synthesis rather than natural processes, which limits its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, 5-ethyl-2-methyl nonanal is used to impart fresh, citrus-like notes to a variety of products, including beverages, confectionery, and dairy products. It functions as an impact note, providing a bright, zesty character. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the complexity of the flavor system. The compound is generally stable under typical food processing conditions, although it may be susceptible to oxidation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, 5-ethyl-2-methyl nonanal is utilized in citrus and green fragrance families, often as a top note due to its volatility. It serves as a modifier, enhancing the freshness and brightness of the fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the product type and desired effect.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring regulations.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with local flavor and fragrance regulations is advised.
- Latin America: No specific data; adherence to regional standards is recommended.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Data not found; formulators should ensure usage aligns with industry-typical safety margins.
- Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance use.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered.
Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications, with fragrance use requiring more stringent dermal and inhalation safety assessments.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
5-ethyl-2-methyl nonanal is valued for its ability to impart fresh, citrus-like notes in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and green notes, enhancing overall brightness. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering aroma, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired freshness. Formulators should carefully balance its concentration to achieve the optimal sensory impact.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 5-ethyl-2-methyl nonanal is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical applications. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data, which necessitate cautious use and adherence to general safety guidelines.
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 2026-01-28 07:17:15 GMT (p2)