FlavScents AInsights Entry for (Z)-3-hexenal (CAS: 6789-80-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Leaf aldehyde, (Z)-3-hexenal
• IUPAC Name: (Z)-hex-3-enal
• CAS Number: 6789-80-6
• FEMA Number: 3429
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 05.061
• Molecular Formula: C6H10O
• Molecular Weight: 98.15 g/mol

(Z)-3-hexenal is an unsaturated aldehyde characterized by a double bond in the Z configuration, contributing to its distinctive green, leafy odor. The presence of the aldehyde group is crucial for its reactivity and sensory properties, making it a valuable component in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(Z)-3-hexenal is renowned for its fresh, green, and leafy odor, reminiscent of freshly cut grass or crushed leaves. It is a potent impact note, often used to impart a natural, fresh character to both flavors and fragrances. The odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. Its intensity and diffusion are high, allowing it to stand out in complex formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(Z)-3-hexenal is naturally found in a variety of plants, including tomatoes, apples, and green leaves. It is typically formed through the enzymatic oxidation of linolenic acid, a process that occurs when plant tissues are damaged. This compound is often associated with the "green" aroma of freshly cut plants, making it a key component in natural flavor and fragrance designations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, (Z)-3-hexenal is used to enhance the freshness and authenticity of fruit and vegetable flavors, particularly in apple, tomato, and cucumber profiles. It serves as an impact note, providing a burst of freshness. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. It is relatively stable under acidic conditions but can degrade under high heat or oxidative environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

(Z)-3-hexenal is utilized in fragrance formulations to impart a fresh, green note, often used in perfumes, personal care products, and household cleaners. It contributes primarily to the top notes due to its high volatility. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to 0.5% in the final product, depending on the desired intensity and product type.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 05.061.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved in Japan and China for flavor use; specific regulations may vary.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, but specific approvals should be verified.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (Z)-3-hexenal is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with a high margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its rapid evaporation and low use concentrations. Overall, the risk profiles are similar between food and fragrance applications, with no significant safety concerns reported.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(Z)-3-hexenal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, natural character to formulations. It synergizes well with other green and fruity notes, enhancing the overall freshness. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often under-used in complex formulations where a subtle green note is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (Z)-3-hexenal is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific use levels may vary based on formulation goals. No significant data gaps or regulatory ambiguities are noted.

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 2026-03-04 15:55:02 GMT (p2)