AInsights Entry for (Z)-12-musk decenone (CAS: 111879-79-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (Z)-12-musk decenone
• IUPAC Name: (Z)-12-methyl-13-oxabicyclo[10.2.2]hexadeca-1(14),15-dien-2-one
• CAS Number: 111879-79-9
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C16H28O2
• Molecular Weight: 252.39 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: (Z)-12-musk decenone is characterized by its macrocyclic lactone structure, which is crucial for its musk odor profile. The presence of the lactone ring contributes to its stability and diffusion properties, making it a valuable component in fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

• Odor and Flavor Descriptors: (Z)-12-musk decenone is known for its rich, sweet, and musky odor. It is often described as having a warm, animalic character with a subtle floral undertone.
• Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific thresholds are not clearly reported, but it is typically used at low concentrations due to its potent odor.
• Typical Sensory Role: It serves as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing depth and warmth. It can also act as a background realism enhancer in complex formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

• Known Natural Sources: (Z)-12-musk decenone is not known to occur naturally and is typically synthesized for use in fragrances.
• Formation Pathways: It is synthesized through chemical processes involving macrocyclic lactone formation.
• Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: As a synthetic compound, it does not qualify for natural flavor or fragrance designations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

• Flavor Categories and Applications: While primarily used in fragrances, its musky profile can be utilized in flavor applications requiring a musk note, though this is less common.
• Functional Role in Flavor Systems: It can provide a unique musk character in certain flavor profiles, often as a trace component.
• Typical Use Levels: Data not found. Industry-typical use levels are likely very low, given its potent odor.
• Stability Considerations: It is generally stable under typical flavor formulation conditions but should be evaluated for stability in specific applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

• Fragrance Families and Product Types: Commonly used in oriental, woody, and floral fragrance families.
• Functional Role: Acts as a base note, providing longevity and warmth. It is often used as a modifier to enhance the depth of a fragrance.
• Typical Concentration Ranges: Typically used in concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 5% in fragrance formulations.
• Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: It contributes primarily as a base note due to its low volatility and long-lasting character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Not explicitly listed as GRAS for flavor use.
• European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number status): Not specifically listed under EU flavor regulations.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): High-level regulatory information not clearly reported; typically follows international guidelines.
• Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): High-level regulatory information not clearly reported; typically follows international guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Not typically used in food applications; therefore, oral exposure data is limited.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe for use in fragrances; however, IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific restrictions.
• Inhalation Exposure: As a fragrance component, inhalation exposure is considered safe within typical use concentrations. Occupational exposure limits are not specifically reported.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

• Why This Material is Valuable: Its unique musk profile and stability make it a versatile component in fragrance design.
• Typical Synergies: Pairs well with floral and woody notes to enhance depth and complexity.
• Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering musk character; careful balancing is required.
• Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-Used: Often under-used in formulations seeking a subtle musk note due to its potency.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

• Well-Established Data: Structural and sensory characteristics are well-documented.
• Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Use levels and specific applications may vary widely in practice.
• Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Limited specific regulatory approvals and exposure data.

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 (not available, noted as data not found)
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable)

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 2026-04-30 18:43:35 GMT (p2)