AInsights Entry for (R)-delta-decalactone (CAS: 2825-91-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (R)-delta-decalactone
• IUPAC Name: (4R)-4-hydroxydecanoic acid lactone
• CAS Number: 2825-91-4
• FEMA Number: 2360
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.010
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 170.25 g/mol

(R)-delta-decalactone is a lactone compound characterized by its cyclic ester structure, which contributes to its creamy, coconut-like odor. The presence of the lactone ring is crucial for its sensory properties, providing a sweet, fruity aroma that is widely used in flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(R)-delta-decalactone is known for its creamy, coconut-like aroma with a sweet, fruity undertone. It is often described as having a milky, peach-like scent with moderate intensity and good diffusion. The compound is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a rich, creamy character that enhances the overall sensory profile of a product. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, it is generally used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(R)-delta-decalactone occurs naturally in various fruits, including peaches, apricots, and strawberries. It is formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, specifically from the hydrolysis and subsequent lactonization of 4-hydroxydecanoic acid. This compound is often used to impart a "natural flavor" designation in products due to its presence in nature and its method of formation.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(R)-delta-decalactone is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in dairy, fruit, and confectionery applications. It serves as a key component in creating creamy, coconut, and peach flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.5 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor profiles. The compound is stable under typical processing conditions, including moderate heat and neutral pH, but may degrade under extreme conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, (R)-delta-decalactone is utilized in various fragrance families, including gourmand, fruity, and floral compositions. It acts as a modifier, adding creamy and sweet notes that enhance the richness of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility places it in the middle note category, contributing to the fragrance's heart.

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 No. 09.010.
• United Kingdom: Follows 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, with harmonized regulations.

Explicit approvals exist for both flavor and fragrance applications, with some variability in concentration limits across regions.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (R)-delta-decalactone is considered safe within the established FEMA GRAS limits, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically defined but implied by its GRAS status. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications shows low irritation potential, with no significant sensitization reported, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is generally considered safe at typical use levels, with no occupational hazards identified under normal conditions.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(R)-delta-decalactone is valued for its ability to impart creamy, coconut-like notes that enhance the richness of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other lactones and fruity esters, creating complex and appealing profiles. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its potent aroma can dominate a blend. It is often underutilized in savory applications, where it can add unexpected depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (R)-delta-decalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps include specific taste and odor thresholds, which are typically addressed through empirical formulation testing.

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 2026-03-01 13:05:55 GMT (p2)