FlavScents AInsights Entry for Delta-Dodecalactone (CAS: 713-95-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Delta-dodecalactone
• IUPAC Name: 5-Butyl-4-methyloxolan-2-one
• CAS Number: 713-95-1
• FEMA Number: 2400
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.014
• Molecular Formula: C12H22O2
• Molecular Weight: 198.31 g/mol

Delta-dodecalactone is a lactone compound characterized by a five-membered ring with a butyl and a methyl group. Its structure contributes to its creamy, coconut-like odor, which is significant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Delta-dodecalactone is known for its creamy, coconut, and slightly fruity odor profile. It is often described as having a rich, sweet, and milky aroma with a moderate intensity. The compound is used as an impact note in formulations, providing a distinct coconut character that can enhance the overall sensory experience. The odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Delta-dodecalactone occurs naturally in various fruits and dairy products. It is formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, particularly during the ripening of fruits or the fermentation of dairy. This compound is often used to impart a "natural flavor" designation due to its presence in nature and its method of formation.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Delta-dodecalactone is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in dairy, coconut, and tropical fruit flavors. It serves as a key impact note, enhancing the creamy and sweet characteristics of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in food and beverages range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor systems. The compound is stable under typical processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, delta-dodecalactone is utilized in various fragrance families, including gourmand and tropical scents. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the creamy and sweet aspects of the fragrance. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to 0.5% in finished products, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility places it in the middle note category, providing a lasting creamy aroma.

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 No. 09.014.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Delta-dodecalactone is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by FEMA. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing, with IFRA standards providing guidance on safe use levels. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Delta-dodecalactone is valued for its ability to impart a rich, creamy coconut note, making it a versatile ingredient in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other lactones and tropical fruit esters. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its potent aroma can dominate blends. It is often underutilized in non-dairy applications where its creamy note can add depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on delta-dodecalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and safety profiles documented in industry literature. While regulatory approvals are clear, formulators should verify local regulations for specific applications. Some industry practices may not be fully documented but are widely accepted.

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 14:12:27 GMT (p2)