FlavScents AInsights Entry for Tetradecane (CAS: 629-59-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Tetradecane
• IUPAC Name: Tetradecane
• CAS Number: 629-59-4
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not applicable, CoE number not applicable, IFRA reference not applicable
• Molecular Formula: C14H30
• Molecular Weight: 198.39 g/mol

Tetradecane is a straight-chain alkane with 14 carbon atoms. It is a saturated hydrocarbon, which means it contains only single bonds between carbon atoms. This structure contributes to its relatively low reactivity and stability. The lack of functional groups in tetradecane means it does not have a strong odor or flavor, making it less relevant in sensory applications compared to other compounds with more complex structures.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Tetradecane is generally considered to be odorless and tasteless, which limits its direct application in flavor and fragrance formulations. Its primary role in sensory applications is as a solvent or carrier rather than as an active sensory ingredient. Due to its high molecular weight and lack of functional groups, tetradecane does not have a significant odor threshold or flavor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Tetradecane is not commonly found in nature as a distinct compound but can be a component of complex mixtures such as petroleum and certain plant waxes. It is typically produced through the refining of crude oil or through synthetic processes in the laboratory. Its presence in natural sources is usually as a minor component, and it does not contribute significantly to the sensory characteristics of these materials.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Tetradecane is not typically used as a flavoring agent due to its lack of taste and odor. However, it may be used as a solvent or carrier in flavor formulations, particularly where a non-reactive, stable medium is required. The typical use levels in food or beverage applications are not well-documented, as its role is more functional than sensory. Stability considerations include its resistance to oxidation and thermal degradation, making it suitable for use in various processing conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, tetradecane serves primarily as a solvent or diluent. It is used to dissolve other fragrance ingredients and to adjust the volatility of a fragrance composition. Tetradecane does not contribute to the fragrance profile itself but can influence the release and longevity of other fragrance components. It is typically used in low concentrations, and its volatility is relatively low, contributing to the base notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Tetradecane is not specifically listed as a flavor or fragrance ingredient by the FDA or FEMA. Its use is generally considered safe as a solvent or carrier.
• European Union: Not specifically regulated under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is subject to general safety assessments.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Regulatory status varies; generally considered safe in non-sensory roles.
• Latin America: Similar to the US and EU, with no specific restrictions noted.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Tetradecane is not intended for direct ingestion. Its use as a solvent in flavor applications is considered safe at low levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally considered non-irritating and non-sensitizing, making it suitable for use in fragrance formulations.
• Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risks, but occupational exposure should be minimized through standard safety practices.

Overall, tetradecane is considered to have a low toxicity profile, with no significant differences in risk between food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Tetradecane is valued for its stability and non-reactivity, making it an excellent solvent or carrier in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It is often used to adjust the volatility and release profile of active ingredients. Formulators should be aware of its lack of sensory contribution and ensure it is used appropriately to support other ingredients rather than as a primary sensory agent.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on tetradecane is well-established in terms of its chemical properties and safety profile. However, specific sensory and regulatory data are limited due to its primary role as a solvent. Industry practices are generally consistent, but formulators should verify specific regulatory requirements for their target markets.

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 (not applicable for tetradecane)
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable for tetradecane)

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 2026-08-24 05:57:19 GMT (p2)