FlavScents AInsights Entry for (R)-gamma-decalactone (CAS: 107797-26-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (R)-gamma-decalactone
• IUPAC Name: (R)-5-butyloxolan-2-one
• CAS Number: 107797-26-2
• FEMA Number: 2360
• Other Identifiers: FL number 09.018
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 170.25 g/mol

(R)-gamma-decalactone is a lactone compound characterized by a five-membered oxolane ring with a butyl side chain. Its structure contributes to its fruity and creamy odor profile, making it relevant in flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(R)-gamma-decalactone is known for its distinct peach-like aroma, often described as creamy, fruity, and sweet. It exhibits moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable as an impact note in formulations. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, enhancing its effectiveness in small concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(R)-gamma-decalactone occurs naturally in various fruits, including peaches, apricots, and strawberries. It is formed through enzymatic degradation of fatty acids during fruit ripening. This compound is often used to impart a "natural flavor" designation in products due to its presence in nature.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(R)-gamma-decalactone is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit and dairy categories. It serves as an impact note, providing a realistic peach or apricot flavor. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering notes. The compound is stable under typical food processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, (R)-gamma-decalactone is utilized in fruity and gourmand fragrance families. It acts as a modifier, enhancing the creamy and sweet aspects of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges are from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity. It contributes primarily to the middle notes 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 number 09.018.
• 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.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (R)-gamma-decalactone is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI limits. Dermal exposure in fragrance use shows low irritation potential, but sensitization should be monitored. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be in place. Risk profiles are consistent across food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(R)-gamma-decalactone is valued for its ability to impart a natural peach aroma. It synergizes well with other fruity and creamy notes. Formulators should avoid overuse, which can lead to an artificial scent. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where subtlety is required.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on (R)-gamma-decalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification.

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

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 05:23:55 GMT (p2)