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

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (R)-delta-decalactone
• IUPAC Name: (4R)-4-Decanolide
• CAS Number: 2825-91-4
• FEMA Number: 2360
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.011
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 170.25 g/mol

(R)-delta-decalactone is a lactone compound characterized by a ten-carbon ring structure with an ester functional group. This structure is crucial for its creamy, coconut-like odor, which is highly valued in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(R)-delta-decalactone is known for its rich, creamy, and coconut-like aroma with a sweet, fruity undertone. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties. The compound is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a distinct creamy character that enhances the overall sensory profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(R)-delta-decalactone occurs naturally in various fruits, including peaches and apricots, and is also found in some dairy products. It can be formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, a process that occurs naturally in fruits and during the fermentation of dairy products. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts.

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, coconut, and tropical fruit flavors. It serves as a key impact note, providing a creamy and rich character. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense 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 fragrance applications, (R)-delta-decalactone is used in various product types, including perfumes, lotions, and creams. It contributes to the creamy and sweet notes in fragrance compositions, often serving as a modifier or background realism enhancer. Typical concentration ranges in fragrances are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is considered a middle note due to its moderate volatility.

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. 09.011.
• 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 exist in major markets, with harmonized assumptions across regions. However, formulators should verify specific country regulations due to potential variability.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (R)-delta-decalactone is considered safe at typical use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory authorities. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications shows low irritation and sensitization potential, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is generally considered safe, but occupational exposure limits should be observed in manufacturing settings. The risk profiles are similar for both food and fragrance applications, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(R)-delta-decalactone is valued for its ability to impart a creamy, coconut-like character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other lactones and fruity esters, enhancing the overall sensory experience. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering aroma, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired creaminess. Formulators should balance its use with complementary notes to achieve the best results.

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 are minimal, with most information supported by authoritative sources.

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 2026-09-10 04:38:47 GMT (p2)