FlavScents AInsights Entry for Delta-Octalactone (CAS: 698-76-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Delta-Octalactone
• IUPAC Name: 5-Butyloxolan-2-one
• CAS Number: 698-76-0
• FEMA Number: 3655
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.014
• Molecular Formula: C8H14O2
• Molecular Weight: 142.20 g/mol

Delta-octalactone is a lactone compound characterized by a five-membered ring containing an ester functional group. This structure is crucial for its creamy, coconut-like odor, which is a result of the lactone's ability to interact with olfactory receptors. The presence of the butyl side chain contributes to its unique sensory properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Delta-octalactone is known for its creamy, coconut-like aroma with a sweet, milky undertone. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and a smooth diffusion, making it a popular choice for imparting a rich, tropical character to flavor and fragrance compositions. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations. In formulations, it serves as an impact note, providing a distinct coconut profile that enhances the overall sensory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Delta-octalactone naturally occurs in various fruits and dairy products, contributing to their characteristic flavors. It is formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, a process that can occur during the ripening of fruits or the fermentation of dairy. This compound is often used to achieve a "natural flavor" designation in products due to its presence in nature and its ability to mimic natural coconut and creamy notes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Delta-octalactone is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in dairy, coconut, and tropical fruit profiles. It acts as a key component in creating authentic coconut flavors and is often used in conjunction with other lactones to enhance creaminess. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.5 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense flavor applications. It is stable under typical processing conditions, though care should be taken to avoid excessive heat which may lead to degradation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, delta-octalactone is utilized in various product types, including personal care products and fine fragrances. It is commonly found in the gourmand and tropical fragrance families, where it serves as a modifier or impact note to provide a creamy, coconut-like aroma. Concentration ranges vary, but it is typically used at low levels due to its potent odor. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance composition.

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 number 09.014.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, though specific regulations may vary.

Delta-octalactone is widely accepted for use in both flavor and fragrance applications, with harmonized regulations across many regions. However, formulators should verify specific country requirements to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Delta-octalactone 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, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Delta-octalactone is valued for its ability to impart a rich, creamy coconut flavor and aroma. It synergizes well with other lactones and tropical notes, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its potent aroma can dominate a composition. It is often under-utilized in non-tropical applications where its creamy character can add depth and complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on delta-octalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and safety profiles documented in industry literature. While regulatory approvals are consistent across major regions, formulators should remain aware of any updates to regional guidelines. Some industry practices may not be fully documented, but they are widely accepted based on empirical use.

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 2026-01-21 19:50:02 GMT (p2)