FlavScents AInsights Entry for 1-Dodecanol (CAS: 112-53-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

1-Dodecanol, also known as lauryl alcohol, is a fatty alcohol with the IUPAC name dodecan-1-ol. It is identified by the CAS number 112-53-8. The FEMA number for 1-dodecanol is 2639. Other identifiers include the FL number 02.015 and CoE number 01.002. The molecular formula for 1-dodecanol is C12H26O, and it has a molecular weight of 186.34 g/mol. This compound features a hydroxyl group attached to a long carbon chain, which contributes to its characteristic waxy odor and low volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

1-Dodecanol is characterized by a mild, waxy odor with a slight floral nuance. It is not typically used for its flavor properties due to its high odor threshold, which is not well-documented but generally considered to be high. In sensory applications, it serves as a background note, providing body and texture rather than a distinct aroma or flavor.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

1-Dodecanol is naturally found in small quantities in some plant oils and waxes. It can be formed through the reduction of lauric acid, which is abundant in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. This compound is often used in products labeled as "natural" due to its derivation from natural sources, although it is typically synthesized for commercial use.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, 1-dodecanol is used sparingly due to its high odor threshold. It is primarily employed as a texturizing agent rather than a flavoring agent. Typical use levels in food and beverages are not well-documented, but they are generally low, often below 10 ppm, to avoid imparting any waxy taste. It is stable under normal processing conditions, including moderate heat and neutral pH.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

1-Dodecanol is used in fragrance formulations to impart a subtle waxy note and to enhance the longevity of other fragrance components. It is commonly found in floral and oriental fragrance families. Typical concentrations in fragrance products range from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect. It contributes primarily to the base note due to its low volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, 1-dodecanol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by FEMA. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned the FL number 02.015. The United Kingdom follows EU regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, it is permitted for use in food and cosmetics, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also allow its use, aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

1-Dodecanol is considered safe for oral exposure at low levels typical in flavor applications, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, as supported by IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, reducing occupational risks. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant safety concerns reported.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

1-Dodecanol is valued for its ability to enhance the texture and stability of formulations. It synergizes well with other fatty alcohols and esters, providing a smooth, waxy base. Formulators should be cautious of its high odor threshold, ensuring it does not overpower delicate flavors or fragrances. It is often under-used in flavor applications due to its subtle impact but can be over-used in fragrances if not balanced properly.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 1-dodecanol is well-established, particularly regarding its chemical identity and regulatory status. Industry practices are documented, though specific sensory thresholds and use levels in flavors are less frequently reported. There are no significant data gaps, but formulators should verify specific regulatory requirements for their target markets.

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 2026-08-24 05:52:59 GMT (p2)