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 the presence of a double bond in the Z configuration, which contributes to its distinctive green, leafy odor. The aldehyde functional 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 leaves. It is often described as having a high intensity and a sharp, penetrating character. The compound is used as an impact note in flavor and fragrance compositions, providing a sense of freshness and realism. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations.

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 degradation of fatty acids, particularly linolenic acid, via the lipoxygenase pathway. This compound is often associated with the "green" notes in natural flavors and fragrances, making it a key component in products labeled as "natural."

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, (Z)-3-hexenal is used to impart fresh, green notes to a wide range of products, including beverages, confectionery, and savory items. It serves as an impact note and is often used in combination with other green aldehydes to enhance the authenticity of fruit and vegetable flavors. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The compound is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may 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 compositions to provide fresh, green, and natural notes. It is commonly found in the top notes of perfumes and is used in a variety of product types, including personal care products, household cleaners, and air fresheners. Concentration ranges in fragrances are typically low, often less than 0.1%, due to its high volatility and potent odor. It contributes primarily to the top note, providing an initial burst of freshness.

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: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Generally accepted in Japan and China, though specific regulations may vary.
• Latin America: Accepted in Brazil and other MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized assumptions.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (Z)-3-hexenal is considered safe at typical use levels in food, with no specific ADI established but generally recognized as safe under FEMA GRAS. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is subject to IFRA guidelines, which recommend limits to prevent irritation and sensitization. Inhalation exposure is generally low risk due to its rapid volatilization, though occupational exposure should be managed with adequate ventilation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(Z)-3-hexenal is valued for its ability to impart fresh, green notes that enhance the authenticity of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other aldehydes and green notes, though care must be taken to avoid overpowering the composition. Common pitfalls include overuse, leading to an artificial or harsh character, and instability in formulations exposed to heat or air.

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 needs. Some data gaps exist in the detailed toxicological profiles, particularly for long-term exposure.

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 2026-09-08 09:25:55 GMT (p2)