FlavScents AInsights Entry: 2-Undecanone (CAS: 112-12-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 2-Undecanone, Methyl nonyl ketone
• IUPAC Name: Undecan-2-one
• CAS Number: 112-12-9
• FEMA Number: 3091
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.191
• Molecular Formula: C11H22O
• Molecular Weight: 170.29 g/mol

2-Undecanone is a ketone with a linear chain structure, characterized by a carbonyl group (C=O) at the second position. This functional group is crucial for its odor profile, contributing to its distinctive scent. The molecule's structure allows for moderate volatility, making it suitable for both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

2-Undecanone is known for its strong, penetrating odor reminiscent of citrus and herbs, with a slightly fruity undertone. It is often described as having a green, fresh, and somewhat spicy aroma. The compound's intensity is moderate, making it a versatile component in both flavor and fragrance formulations. Its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable effects even at minimal concentrations. In sensory applications, it serves as an impact note, providing a fresh and vibrant character to compositions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

2-Undecanone occurs naturally in several plants, including rue (Ruta graveolens) and wild tomato species. It is also found in the essential oils of certain citrus fruits. The compound can be formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, a common pathway in plant metabolism. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods employed.

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

4. Use in Flavors

2-Undecanone is utilized in various flavor categories, including citrus, herbal, and spicy profiles. It functions as a modifier, enhancing the freshness and complexity 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. The compound is stable under typical processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, 2-undecanone is incorporated into citrus, green, and herbal fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing freshness and vibrancy. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The compound's volatility places it in the middle note category, providing a sustained presence in the fragrance profile.

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 07.191.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are in place, though formulators should verify country-specific guidelines to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, 2-undecanone is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI limits, with a wide margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally non-irritating, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific use restrictions. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

2-Undecanone is valued for its ability to impart freshness and complexity to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with citrus and herbal notes, enhancing their natural characteristics. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to overpowering effects. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtle contributions can enhance overall harmony.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 2-undecanone is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are generally consistent, though some undocumented variations exist in use levels and applications. Known data gaps are minimal, with regulatory ambiguities primarily related to regional interpretations.

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 2026-02-18 14:10:23 GMT (p2)