FlavScents AInsights Entry for Undecanal (CAS: 112-44-7)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Undecanal
- IUPAC Name: Undecanal
- CAS Number: 112-44-7
- FEMA Number: 3090
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.015
- Molecular Formula: C11H22O
- Molecular Weight: 170.29 g/mol
Undecanal is a saturated aliphatic aldehyde with a linear carbon chain. Its structure is characterized by a terminal aldehyde group, which is crucial for its odor profile. The aldehyde group contributes to its distinctive citrusy and waxy scent, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Undecanal is known for its citrusy, waxy, and slightly floral odor. It is often described as having a clean, aldehydic scent with moderate intensity and good diffusion. The compound is used as an impact note in formulations, providing a fresh and uplifting character. While specific taste thresholds are not well-documented, its odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Undecanal occurs naturally in citrus oils, such as orange and lemon, and is also found in coriander leaf oil. It can be formed through the oxidation of corresponding alcohols or via the degradation of fatty acids. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, depending on the context of its use.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Undecanal is utilized in a variety of flavor categories, including citrus, fruity, and floral profiles. It serves as a functional impact note, enhancing the freshness and authenticity of flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. Undecanal is stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, undecanal is incorporated into citrus, floral, and aldehydic fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges vary from trace amounts to 1% in finished products, depending on the desired intensity and character. Its volatility allows it to impart a fresh, clean scent that is perceived early in the fragrance experience.
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. 02.015.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific limits varying by country.
- Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.
Undecanal is widely approved for use in both flavor and fragrance applications, with harmonized assumptions across many regions. However, formulators should verify specific country regulations to ensure compliance.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, undecanal is considered safe within the established FEMA GRAS limits, with no specific ADI or MSDI reported. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is typically low risk due to its volatility and use at low concentrations. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with safety assured through adherence to regulatory guidelines.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Undecanal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, clean character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and floral notes, enhancing the overall profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering aldehydic scent. Formulators should balance undecanal with complementary notes to achieve the desired effect without overwhelming the composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on undecanal is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. While industry practices are generally consistent, some undocumented variations in use levels and applications may exist. Known data gaps are minimal, with regulatory frameworks providing clear guidance for its use.
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 2026-09-15 05:57:19 GMT (p2)