FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-Heptanone (CAS: 110-43-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

2-Heptanone, also known as methyl n-amyl ketone, is a ketone with the IUPAC name heptan-2-one. It is identified by the CAS number 110-43-0 and has a FEMA number of 2557. The molecular formula for 2-heptanone is C7H14O, with a molecular weight of 114.19 g/mol. This compound features a ketone functional group, which is significant for its odor characteristics. The presence of the carbonyl group contributes to its distinctive scent, often described as fruity or nutty, making it relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

2-Heptanone is characterized by a fruity, nutty odor with moderate intensity and diffusion. It is often described as having a banana-like scent, which can be perceived as pleasant and sweet. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be detected at minimal concentrations, making it an effective impact note in formulations. In flavor applications, it is used to impart a creamy, fruity nuance, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

2-Heptanone naturally occurs in various fruits and dairy products. It is formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids and can also result from fermentation processes. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be classified under "natural flavor" designations, which is advantageous for clean-label product formulations. The compound's formation pathways are well-documented in food chemistry literature, highlighting its role in the natural aroma profile of several foods.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, 2-heptanone is utilized across various categories, including dairy, fruit, and confectionery flavors. It serves as a functional component that enhances creamy and fruity notes, often used as a background realism enhancer or a modifier. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with industry-typical concentrations around 1 ppm. The compound is stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

2-Heptanone is employed in fragrance formulations, particularly within fruity and floral fragrance families. It acts as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the desired intensity and diffusion. Its volatility allows it to contribute to the initial impression of a fragrance, enhancing the overall olfactory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, 2-heptanone is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. The European Union lists it under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number, indicating its approval for use in food flavorings. The United Kingdom, post-Brexit, aligns with EU regulations. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for its use, generally aligning with international standards. In Latin America, regulatory frameworks such as those in Brazil and MERCOSUR recognize its safe use in flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, 2-heptanone is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI limits, with a wide margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications shows low irritation and sensitization potential, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, with occupational exposure limits set to ensure safety in manufacturing environments. 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

2-Heptanone is valued for its ability to impart a creamy, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent or flavor. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle, natural fruitiness. Formulators should consider its stability and volatility when designing products.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 2-heptanone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some undocumented practices exist. Known data gaps are minimal, with regulatory ambiguities primarily related to regional variations in guidelines.

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 2026-07-02 06:50:38 GMT (p2)