FlavScents AInsights Entry for Citronellal (CAS: 106-23-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Citronellal
• IUPAC Name: 3,7-Dimethyloct-6-en-1-al
• CAS Number: 106-23-0
• FEMA Number: 2309
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.015
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O
• Molecular Weight: 154.25 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Citronellal is an acyclic monoterpenoid with an aldehyde functional group. Its structure contributes to its characteristic lemon-like odor, which is widely used in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Citronellal is characterized by its fresh, lemon-like odor with a slightly floral nuance. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in formulations, providing a bright, citrusy top note that enhances freshness and vibrancy in both flavors and fragrances. The odor threshold for citronellal is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Citronellal naturally occurs in the essential oils of several plants, most notably in citronella, lemongrass, and eucalyptus. It is biosynthesized in plants via the mevalonate pathway, which is common for monoterpenes. Citronellal's presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Citronellal is used across various flavor categories, including citrus, mint, and herbal profiles. It serves as a key impact note, providing a fresh, lemony character that enhances the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.5 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. Citronellal 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 fragrance formulations, citronellal is commonly used in citrus, floral, and fresh fragrance families. It acts as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness and brightness. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products vary from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Citronellal's volatility makes it an effective top note, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Citronellal is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 02.015.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized regulations aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Citronellal has a high margin of safety when used within recommended flavor concentrations. The ADI is not explicitly defined, but typical use levels are well below any safety thresholds.
• Dermal Exposure: In fragrance applications, citronellal may cause mild irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals. IFRA provides guidelines to minimize these risks.
• Inhalation Exposure: As a volatile compound, citronellal poses minimal inhalation risk at typical use levels in consumer products. Occupational exposure should be managed with standard ventilation practices.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Citronellal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, citrusy character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral notes, enhancing overall brightness and freshness. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate blends if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its impact can be subtly integrated.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on citronellal is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific concentration guidelines may vary. Known data gaps are minimal, with most regulatory and safety assessments harmonized across regions.

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 2026-03-16 08:15:53 GMT (p2)