AInsights Entry for Melon Heptenal (CAS: 106-72-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Melon Heptenal
• IUPAC Name: (E)-2-Heptenal
• CAS Number: 106-72-9
• FEMA Number: 2543
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.008
• Molecular Formula: C7H12O
• Molecular Weight: 112.17 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Melon heptenal is an α,β-unsaturated aldehyde. The presence of the aldehyde group contributes to its characteristic melon-like odor, which is often described as fresh and fruity. The double bond in the structure is crucial for its reactivity and sensory properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Melon heptenal is known for its distinctive fresh, fruity, and melon-like odor. It is often described as having a sweet, green, and slightly waxy character. The intensity of its odor is moderate, making it suitable for use as an impact note in flavor compositions. The compound is primarily used to impart a fresh and juicy melon aroma, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the product. Specific odor thresholds are not widely reported, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Melon heptenal is not commonly found in nature but can be formed through the oxidative degradation of unsaturated fatty acids. This process can occur during the ripening of fruits or through enzymatic reactions in food processing. Its presence in natural products is often associated with the characteristic aroma of fresh melons, contributing to the "natural flavor" designation when derived from such sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Melon heptenal is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as beverages, candies, and desserts. It serves as an impact note, providing a fresh and authentic melon aroma. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under high heat or acidic conditions, which should be considered during formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, melon heptenal is used to impart a fresh, fruity note to various product types, including personal care products, household cleaners, and air fresheners. It is often used as a modifier or impact note in fragrance compositions, contributing to the top or middle notes. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the desired effect and product application.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Melon heptenal is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for use in flavors.
• European Union: It is listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 07.008, allowing its use in food flavorings.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align with the EU standards for flavor use.
• Asia: In Japan and China, melon heptenal is permitted for use in flavors, subject to local regulations.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in countries like Brazil under MERCOSUR regulations, with specific use conditions.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Melon heptenal is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical use levels. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by its GRAS status, with no specific ADI or MSDI reported. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is generally safe, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported at typical concentrations. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Melon heptenal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, authentic melon aroma, making it a versatile ingredient in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and green notes, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be cautious of its reactivity under acidic or high-temperature conditions, which may lead to degradation. It is often under-used in complex formulations where its impact can be overshadowed by more dominant notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on melon heptenal is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific numeric thresholds and exposure data may be limited. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological studies and specific odor thresholds, which formulators should consider when designing products.

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 2026-03-12 08:01:30 GMT (p2)