FlavScents AInsights Entry for Omega-Pentadecalactone (CAS: 106-02-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Omega-pentadecalactone, Exaltolide
• IUPAC Name: Pentadecan-15-olide
• CAS Number: 106-02-5
• FEMA Number: 3689
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.037
• Molecular Formula: C15H28O2
• Molecular Weight: 240.38 g/mol

Omega-pentadecalactone is a macrocyclic lactone, characterized by a 15-membered ring structure. This structural feature is significant for its odor profile, contributing to its musky scent. The lactone functional group is crucial for its stability and olfactory properties, making it a valuable compound in both flavor and fragrance industries.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Omega-pentadecalactone is renowned for its musky, sweet, and slightly animalic odor. It is often described as having a creamy, waxy undertone that enhances its appeal in perfumery. The compound exhibits moderate diffusion and intensity, making it suitable as a background note that adds depth and warmth to compositions. While specific taste thresholds are not well-documented, its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable impact even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Omega-pentadecalactone is found naturally in various plant and animal sources, including angelica root and ambrette seed oil. It can also be formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be classified under "natural fragrance" or "natural flavor" categories, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, omega-pentadecalactone is used to impart creamy, musky notes that enhance the richness of dairy and dessert profiles. It is commonly employed in vanilla, chocolate, and caramel flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering musky notes. The compound is stable under typical food processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Omega-pentadecalactone is a staple in the fragrance industry, particularly within the musk fragrance family. It serves as a base note, providing longevity and depth to perfumes. Its typical concentration in fragrance formulations ranges from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The compound's low volatility ensures it remains perceptible long after application, contributing to the fragrance's lasting power.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 09.037.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted under MERCOSUR guidelines, with country-specific variations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Omega-pentadecalactone is considered safe for use in both flavor and fragrance applications. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by its FEMA GRAS status, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically established but deemed safe at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing, aligning with IFRA standards. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, reducing occupational risks.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Omega-pentadecalactone is valued for its ability to impart a natural musk note without the use of animal-derived musks. It synergizes well with floral and woody notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering scent. It is often underutilized in flavor applications, where its creamy undertones can add depth to sweet profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on omega-pentadecalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are well-documented, some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Overall, the compound's safety and efficacy are supported by robust scientific literature.

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 2026-09-09 12:25:13 GMT (p2)