FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E)-2-dodecenal (CAS: 20407-84-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (E)-2-dodecenal
• IUPAC Name: (E)-dodec-2-enal
• CAS Number: 20407-84-5
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C12H22O
• Molecular Weight: 182.30 g/mol

(E)-2-dodecenal is an unsaturated aldehyde characterized by the presence of a double bond in the trans configuration. The aldehyde functional group is crucial for its odor profile, contributing to its distinctive scent. The structure-odor relationship is significant, as the unsaturation and chain length influence its sensory attributes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(E)-2-dodecenal is known for its strong, fatty, and citrus-like odor, often described as having a waxy, aldehydic character. It is perceived as a powerful impact note with moderate diffusion. The compound is used to impart a fresh, citrusy note in both flavors and fragrances. The odor threshold is not clearly reported, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potency.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(E)-2-dodecenal is found naturally in various citrus oils and is a component of some essential oils. It can also be formed through the oxidative degradation of fatty acids. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be used in products labeled as "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance," depending on the regulatory definitions in different regions.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(E)-2-dodecenal is utilized in flavor formulations to provide a fresh, citrusy note. It is commonly used in citrus, fruity, and floral flavor categories. Its functional role is often as an impact note or modifier. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. It is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or oxidative environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrances, (E)-2-dodecenal is used in citrus, floral, and aldehydic fragrance families. It serves as a modifier or impact note, providing freshness and complexity. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity. It contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage in flavors and fragrances is subject to general safety evaluations.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; usage must comply with general safety regulations.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with potential for future divergence.
• Asia: Specific regulations in Japan, China, and ASEAN countries are not clearly reported; general safety compliance is required.
• Latin America: Usage in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries follows general safety guidelines; specific approvals not documented.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (E)-2-dodecenal's safety is evaluated based on its use levels and potential exposure. No specific ADI or MSDI is reported, but it is generally considered safe at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrances may pose irritation or sensitization risks, although specific IFRA guidelines are not available. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be considered.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(E)-2-dodecenal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, citrusy note, enhancing the realism and complexity of formulations. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral compounds. Formulators should be cautious of its potency to avoid overpowering effects. It is often under-used in complex formulations where subtlety is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (E)-2-dodecenal is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical use levels. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and general safety evaluations.

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 2026-06-11 16:59:12 GMT (p2)