FlavScents AInsights Entry for Hexadecane (CAS: 544-76-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Hexadecane
- IUPAC Name: Hexadecane
- CAS Number: 544-76-3
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: FL number not applicable, CoE number not applicable, IFRA reference not applicable
- Molecular Formula: C16H34
- Molecular Weight: 226.44 g/mol
- Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Hexadecane is a saturated hydrocarbon (alkane) with a linear chain structure. It lacks functional groups that typically contribute to odor, which is consistent with its minimal sensory impact.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Hexadecane is generally considered to be odorless or to have a very faint, waxy odor. Its sensory role is minimal, often serving as a neutral carrier or diluent in formulations rather than an active sensory component. Due to its high molecular weight and lack of functional groups, hexadecane does not have a significant odor threshold or flavor profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Hexadecane is not typically found in nature as a distinct compound but can be a component of complex mixtures such as petroleum and certain plant waxes. It is primarily produced through industrial processes, including the refining of crude oil. Hexadecane does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations due to its synthetic origin and lack of significant natural occurrence.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Hexadecane is not commonly used as a flavoring agent due to its lack of taste and odor. However, it may be used as a solvent or carrier in flavor formulations. Typical use levels are not well-documented, but when used, it is generally at low concentrations to avoid altering the flavor profile of the product. Hexadecane is stable under typical food processing conditions, including heat and pH variations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, hexadecane serves primarily as a solvent or carrier rather than a fragrance ingredient. It is used to dilute or stabilize other fragrance components without contributing to the scent profile. Hexadecane's volatility is low, and it does not contribute to the top, middle, or base notes of a fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Hexadecane is not specifically listed as a GRAS substance by FEMA for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is not restricted by IFRA.
- European Union: Not listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: Regulatory status varies; not commonly listed as a flavor or fragrance ingredient.
- Latin America: Similar to other regions, hexadecane is not typically regulated as a flavor or fragrance ingredient.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Hexadecane is not intended for ingestion and lacks an established ADI or MSDI. It is considered non-toxic at low exposure levels typical of incidental contact.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing, making it suitable for use in cosmetic and fragrance applications.
- Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk, but occupational exposure should be minimized through standard safety practices.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Hexadecane is valued for its inertness and stability, making it an excellent carrier or diluent in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It is often used to adjust the viscosity or volatility of a product without impacting its sensory characteristics. Formulators should be aware of its limited sensory contribution and ensure it is used appropriately to avoid unnecessary dilution of active ingredients.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
Data on hexadecane is well-established regarding its chemical properties and safety profile. However, its limited use in flavors and fragrances means that specific application data is less documented. Industry practices are generally consistent with its use as a carrier or solvent.
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 where applicable
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- Section 5a is not applicable as hexadecane is not a complex natural material
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 2026-08-24 05:58:04 GMT (p2)
