FlavScents AInsights Entry for Propionaldehyde (CAS: 123-38-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Propionaldehyde, also known as propanal, is a simple aldehyde with the chemical formula C3H6O and a molecular weight of 58.08 g/mol. It is identified by the CAS number 123-38-6. The FEMA number for propionaldehyde is 2930. This compound is characterized by its aldehyde functional group, which is crucial for its reactivity and sensory properties. The presence of the aldehyde group contributes to its sharp, pungent odor, which is significant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Propionaldehyde is known for its penetrating, pungent odor reminiscent of green, fruity notes with a hint of nuttiness. It is often described as having a sharp, aldehydic character with moderate intensity and diffusion. The compound plays a role as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a fresh, green nuance. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, its potent sensory characteristics suggest it is effective at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Propionaldehyde occurs naturally in various foods and is a byproduct of fermentation processes. It can be formed through the oxidation of propanol or as an intermediate in the Maillard reaction, which is significant in cooked foods. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" under certain regulatory frameworks, provided it is derived from natural processes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, propionaldehyde is used to impart fresh, green, and fruity notes. It is commonly found in fruit, nut, and dairy flavor categories. Its functional role is often as an impact note or modifier, enhancing the overall profile of the flavor system. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the specific application and desired intensity. Propionaldehyde is relatively stable under normal conditions but can be sensitive to oxidation, which may affect its sensory properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, propionaldehyde is utilized for its aldehydic, green notes that contribute to the top notes of a fragrance composition. It is used in various fragrance families, including floral and fruity scents, where it acts as a modifier or impact note. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are low, often less than 0.1%, due to its potent odor. Its volatility makes it a significant contributor to the top notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, propionaldehyde is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, regulatory status varies, with Japan and China having specific guidelines for its use in flavors and fragrances. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR have their own regulatory frameworks, often aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Propionaldehyde's safety profile is influenced by its routes of exposure. For oral exposure in flavor use, it is considered safe at low concentrations, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not clearly reported but generally recognized as safe under typical use conditions. Dermal exposure in fragrance use may pose irritation risks, and it is subject to IFRA guidelines to mitigate sensitization. Inhalation exposure is relevant due to its volatility, with occupational exposure limits recommended to prevent respiratory irritation. The risk profiles differ between food and fragrance applications, with more stringent controls in place for dermal and inhalation routes.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Propionaldehyde is valued for its ability to impart fresh, green notes that enhance the realism of flavor and fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other aldehydes and fruity esters, providing a crisp, clean character. Formulators should be cautious of its potent odor, which can easily dominate a blend if overused. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its impact can be masked by heavier notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on propionaldehyde is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are generally consistent, although specific numeric values for thresholds and ADI are not always explicitly reported. Known data gaps include detailed sensory thresholds and comprehensive regional regulatory nuances.

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 2026-04-15 16:24:25 GMT (p2)