FlavScents AInsights Entry: Gamma-Octalactone (CAS: 104-50-7)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Gamma-octalactone, also known as 5-butyloxolan-2-one, is a single chemical compound with the CAS number 104-50-7. It is recognized by the FEMA number 2804. The molecular formula for gamma-octalactone is C8H14O2, and it has a molecular weight of 142.20 g/mol. This compound is characterized by its lactone functional group, which is crucial for its creamy, coconut-like odor profile. The structure-odor relationship is significant, as the lactone ring contributes to its sweet, fatty scent, making it a valuable component in flavor and fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Gamma-octalactone is renowned for its creamy, coconut-like odor with sweet, fatty nuances. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties. The compound serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a rich, tropical character. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, its potent sensory profile suggests it is effective at low concentrations, enhancing the overall sensory experience in both flavors and fragrances.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Gamma-octalactone occurs naturally in various fruits and foods, including peaches, apricots, and coconuts. It is formed through enzymatic processes and lipid oxidation pathways in these natural sources. Its presence in these foods contributes to their characteristic aromas, making it a candidate for "natural flavor" designation when derived from these sources. The compound's formation is often linked to the breakdown of fatty acids, which is a common pathway in the development of lactones.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Gamma-octalactone is widely used in flavor applications, particularly in dairy, coconut, and tropical fruit profiles. It functions as a key impact note, providing creamy and sweet characteristics. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.5 to 10 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions, which formulators should consider during product development.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, gamma-octalactone is utilized in various fragrance families, including gourmand, fruity, and floral compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing creamy, coconut-like nuances. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts up to 1%, depending on the desired effect. Its volatility places it primarily in the middle note category, where it provides a lasting creamy character.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
Gamma-octalactone is approved for use in flavors and fragrances across multiple regions. In the United States, it is recognized as GRAS by FEMA. The European Union lists it under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number. Post-Brexit, the UK aligns with EU regulations. In Asia, including Japan and China, it is generally accepted, though specific regulatory details may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also permit its use, reflecting a harmonized approach to its safety and application.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Gamma-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 specific ADI or MSDI established, but it is generally recognized as safe under GRAS guidelines. Dermal exposure in fragrances is also deemed safe, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, posing low occupational risks. Overall, its risk profile is consistent across both food and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Gamma-octalactone is valued for its ability to impart creamy, coconut-like notes, enhancing the richness of flavor and fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other lactones and tropical fruit notes, creating complex and appealing profiles. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its potent aroma can dominate blends. It is often under-utilized in non-tropical applications, where it can add unexpected depth and creaminess.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on gamma-octalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific numeric thresholds for sensory perception are less frequently reported. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological studies, though existing evidence supports its safety in typical use scenarios.
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 2026-04-28 05:57:01 GMT (p2)
