FlavScents AInsights Entry for 1-Undecanol (CAS: 112-42-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

1-Undecanol, also known as undecyl alcohol, is a fatty alcohol with the IUPAC name undecane-1-ol. It is identified by the CAS number 112-42-5. The molecular formula for 1-undecanol is C11H24O, and it has a molecular weight of 172.31 g/mol. This compound is characterized by a long carbon chain with a terminal hydroxyl group, which contributes to its hydrophobic nature and influences its odor profile. The functional group present is an alcohol, which is significant in determining its solubility and reactivity in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

1-Undecanol is known for its mild, floral, and slightly citrus-like odor. It is often described as having a waxy, fatty scent with a moderate intensity. The compound is typically used as a background note in fragrance compositions, providing a subtle, naturalistic quality. Its odor threshold is relatively high, meaning it requires a higher concentration to be perceptible compared to more potent aroma chemicals. In flavor applications, it can impart a creamy, fatty taste, enhancing the richness of the overall profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

1-Undecanol is naturally found in various essential oils and plant materials, including citrus oils and certain types of flowers. It can also be produced through the reduction of undecanoic acid or via the hydrogenation of undecanal. In the context of natural flavors and fragrances, 1-undecanol is often derived from plant sources, aligning with consumer preferences for natural ingredients.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, 1-undecanol is used to impart creamy, fatty notes that enhance the richness and mouthfeel of food products. It is commonly found in dairy, confectionery, and bakery flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering waxy taste. The compound is stable under typical food processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations, but may oxidize over time if not properly stored.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

1-Undecanol is utilized in various fragrance families, including floral, citrus, and green compositions. It serves as a modifier or background note, adding depth and naturalness to the scent profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Due to its relatively low volatility, 1-undecanol contributes primarily to the middle and base notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, 1-undecanol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food flavors by FEMA. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned an FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, 1-undecanol is permitted for use in flavors and fragrances, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also allow its use, with harmonized standards aligning with international guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

1-Undecanol is considered safe for use in both flavor and fragrance applications when used within recommended levels. Oral exposure through food is deemed low risk, with no specific ADI established, but typical use levels are well within safe margins. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific product types. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

1-Undecanol is valued for its ability to impart natural, creamy notes in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fatty alcohols and esters, enhancing the richness and depth of formulations. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate if used excessively, leading to a waxy or soapy character. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance the overall profile without overpowering other components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 1-undecanol is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific use levels may vary based on formulation goals. Some data gaps exist in terms of detailed toxicological studies, but existing literature supports its safety in typical applications.

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 2026-07-02 11:55:12 GMT (p2)