FlavScents AInsights Entry for (Z)-Civet Decenone (CAS: 542-46-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (Z)-Civet Decenone
• IUPAC Name: (Z)-5-Decen-4-one
• CAS Number: 542-46-1
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O
• Molecular Weight: 154.25 g/mol

(Z)-Civet decenone is characterized by its unsaturated ketone functional group, which contributes to its distinctive odor profile. The presence of the double bond in the (Z) configuration is crucial for its olfactory properties, often associated with musky and animalic notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(Z)-Civet decenone is known for its musky, animalic odor, reminiscent of natural civetone. It is often described as having a strong, diffusive character with a slightly sweet undertone. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing depth and complexity. Specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its potent nature suggests low threshold levels.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(Z)-Civet decenone is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through organic chemical processes. It is often used as a synthetic alternative to natural civetone, which is derived from the glandular secretions of civet cats. The synthetic route typically involves the aldol condensation of decanal with acetone, followed by dehydration.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(Z)-Civet decenone is rarely used in flavor applications due to its strong animalic odor, which can be overpowering in food products. When used, it serves as a background note to enhance the complexity of certain savory or umami profiles. Typical use levels in flavors are not well-documented, but industry practice suggests levels below 1 ppm to avoid overwhelming the flavor profile. Stability in flavor systems is generally good, with moderate resistance to heat and pH variations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In perfumery, (Z)-civet decenone is valued for its ability to impart a musky, animalic quality to compositions. It is commonly used in oriental and chypre fragrance families, where it acts as a base note, providing longevity and depth. Typical concentration ranges in fragrances are from trace amounts up to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility is moderate, contributing to the middle to base notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA; usage in flavors and fragrances is subject to general safety evaluations.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage is governed by general safety and labeling requirements.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Limited specific regulatory information; usage typically follows international safety standards.
• Latin America: Regulatory status varies; generally aligns with international safety assessments.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (Z)-civet decenone is not commonly used in food, and specific ADI or MSDI values are not available. Dermal exposure in fragrances is more relevant, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization at typical use levels. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk 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

(Z)-Civet decenone is prized for its ability to add a musky, animalic depth to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with floral and woody notes, enhancing the overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can dominate a blend. It is often under-utilized in modern perfumery due to its strong character, but when balanced correctly, it can add a unique signature to a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (Z)-civet decenone is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data are less comprehensive, reflecting industry-typical practices rather than documented standards. Known data gaps include precise flavor use levels and comprehensive regulatory listings.

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 2026-02-06 20:21:34 GMT (p2)