FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E,E)-2,4-undecadienal (CAS: 30361-29-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (E,E)-2,4-undecadienal
• IUPAC Name: (2E,4E)-undeca-2,4-dienal
• CAS Number: 30361-29-6
• FEMA Number: 3422
• Other Identifiers: FL number 02.062
• Molecular Formula: C11H18O
• Molecular Weight: 166.26 g/mol

(E,E)-2,4-undecadienal is an unsaturated aldehyde characterized by its conjugated diene system. The presence of the aldehyde group contributes significantly to its potent odor profile, which is often described as fatty, citrusy, and green. The conjugated double bonds enhance its reactivity and influence its sensory characteristics, making it a valuable compound in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(E,E)-2,4-undecadienal is known for its strong, distinctive odor reminiscent of citrus and fatty notes, often described as having a green, waxy, and slightly floral character. It is highly diffusive and can impart a fresh, natural citrus aroma even at low concentrations. The compound is used as an impact note in flavor compositions, providing a realistic citrus peel effect. Its odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective in small quantities.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(E,E)-2,4-undecadienal occurs naturally in various citrus oils and is a component of the aroma profile of certain fruits and vegetables. It can be formed through the oxidative degradation of unsaturated fatty acids, a process that can occur during the storage and processing of food products. This compound is often used in formulations labeled as "natural flavor" due to its presence in natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(E,E)-2,4-undecadienal is widely used in flavor applications, particularly in citrus, fruity, and green flavor profiles. It serves as an impact note, enhancing the authenticity and freshness of citrus flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 1 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. It is stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to air, necessitating careful formulation considerations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, (E,E)-2,4-undecadienal is utilized for its ability to impart fresh, citrusy, and green notes. It is commonly found in the top notes of perfumes and is used in a variety of product types, including personal care products and household cleaners. Typical concentration ranges are from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for top note applications, providing an initial burst of freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 02.062.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (E,E)-2,4-undecadienal is considered safe at typical use levels in food, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory bodies. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, but it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, necessitating adherence to IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant for occupational settings, where adequate ventilation and protective measures are recommended to minimize risk.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(E,E)-2,4-undecadienal is valued for its potent citrus and green notes, making it a versatile ingredient in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other citrus and green notes, enhancing the overall freshness and authenticity of the composition. Formulators should be cautious of its strong impact, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where its unique profile can provide a distinctive edge.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (E,E)-2,4-undecadienal is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some variability in natural occurrence data may exist due to differences in source materials. No significant data gaps or regulatory ambiguities are noted.

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 2026-08-25 11:48:15 GMT (p2)