FlavScents AInsights Entry for Ethyl Decanoate (CAS: 110-38-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Ethyl decanoate, also known as ethyl caprate, is a chemical compound with the IUPAC name ethyl decanoate. It is identified by the CAS number 110-38-3. The FEMA number for ethyl decanoate is 2438. Other identifiers include the FL number 09.037 and CoE number 203. The molecular formula of ethyl decanoate is C12H24O2, and it has a molecular weight of 200.32 g/mol. This compound is an ester, characterized by its functional group, which contributes to its fruity and waxy odor profile. The ester linkage in ethyl decanoate is crucial for its odor characteristics, often associated with fruity and floral notes in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ethyl decanoate is known for its pleasant fruity aroma, often described as having notes of apple, pear, and grape. It possesses a moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable for use as an impact note in various formulations. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable scent even at low concentrations. In flavor applications, ethyl decanoate is used to enhance the fruity character of products, providing a sense of freshness and realism. Its sensory role is typically as an impact note, contributing to the overall profile of the formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethyl decanoate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples, grapes, and pears. It is formed through the esterification process, where decanoic acid reacts with ethanol. This compound is also a byproduct of fermentation, contributing to the aroma profile of fermented beverages like wine and cider. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts, aligning with consumer preferences for natural ingredients.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Ethyl decanoate is widely used in the flavor industry, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as beverages, candies, and baked goods. It serves as a key component in flavor systems, enhancing the fruity notes and providing a sense of authenticity. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. Ethyl decanoate is generally stable under normal processing conditions, but it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions, which should be considered during formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, ethyl decanoate is used in various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and gourmand. It acts as a modifier, enhancing the overall scent profile and adding a fresh, fruity note. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Ethyl decanoate contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility, providing an initial burst of freshness that transitions smoothly into the heart of the fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, ethyl decanoate is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned the FL number 09.037. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, ethyl decanoate is generally accepted in Japan and China, although specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also recognize its use in flavors and fragrances, with some regional variations in regulatory requirements.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Ethyl decanoate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ethyl decanoate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate a blend if used excessively, as its strong impact can overshadow other notes. It is often under-used in complex formulations where its subtlety can add depth and realism.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ethyl decanoate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, although some regional regulatory nuances may not be fully captured in all sources. Known data gaps are minimal, with most information readily accessible through established databases and literature.

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 2026-07-06 12:46:31 GMT (p2)