FlavScents AInsights Entry for Delta-Decalactone (CAS: 705-86-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Delta-Decalactone
• IUPAC Name: 5-Butyl-4-methyloxolan-2-one
• CAS Number: 705-86-2
• FEMA Number: 2360
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.011
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 170.25 g/mol

Delta-decalactone is a lactone compound characterized by its cyclic ester functional group. The structure contributes to its creamy, coconut-like odor, which is significant in both flavor and fragrance applications. The presence of the lactone ring is crucial for its sensory properties, providing a sweet, fruity aroma that is often described as peachy or creamy.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Delta-decalactone is known for its rich, creamy, and fruity aroma, often described as reminiscent of coconut, peach, and butter. It has a moderate to strong intensity and is used to impart a creamy, sweet note in formulations. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations. It serves as an impact note in flavor systems, providing a distinct creamy and fruity character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Delta-decalactone naturally occurs in various fruits, including peaches, apricots, and strawberries. It is formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, a process that can occur during the ripening of fruits or through fermentation. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Delta-decalactone is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in dairy, fruit, and confectionery products. It functions as a key impact note, providing a creamy, fruity character that enhances the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor systems. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions, although it may degrade at high temperatures or extreme pH levels.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, delta-decalactone is used to impart a creamy, lactonic note, often found in gourmand and fruity fragrance families. It acts as a modifier, enhancing the richness and depth of the fragrance. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to 0.5% in the final product, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility places it primarily 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. 09.011.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in countries like Brazil.

Explicit approvals exist for flavor use, while fragrance applications are subject to IFRA guidelines. There are no significant known uncertainties, but formulators should verify compliance with local regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Delta-decalactone is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety with no established ADI, but typical use levels are well within safe limits. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing, with IFRA standards providing guidance on safe use levels. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Delta-decalactone is valued for its ability to impart a creamy, fruity note that enhances the richness of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other lactones and fruity esters, providing depth and complexity. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial character. It is often under-utilized in savory applications, where it can add a subtle richness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on delta-decalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, although some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. There are no significant data gaps, but ongoing research may provide additional insights into its applications and safety.

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 16:38:51 GMT (p2)