FlavScents AInsights Entry for Decanal (Aldehyde C-10) (CAS: 112-31-2)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Decanal, Aldehyde C-10
- IUPAC Name: Decanal
- CAS Number: 112-31-2
- FEMA Number: 2362
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 05.015
- Molecular Formula: C10H20O
- Molecular Weight: 156.27 g/mol
Decanal is a saturated aliphatic aldehyde with a ten-carbon chain. Its structure is characterized by a terminal aldehyde group, which is crucial for its odor profile. The aldehyde group contributes to its distinctive fatty, citrus-like aroma, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Decanal is known for its strong, fatty, citrus-like odor, often described as reminiscent of orange peel or lemon. It has a high odor intensity and is typically used as an impact note in formulations. The odor threshold of decanal is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable scent even at low concentrations. In flavor applications, it provides a fresh, citrusy note that enhances the overall profile of citrus flavors.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Decanal naturally occurs in the essential oils of citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons. It is also found in coriander and ginger. The compound can be formed through the oxidation of decanol or via the degradation of fatty acids. Its presence in natural sources makes it eligible for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Decanal is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in citrus and fruity profiles. It serves as an impact note, providing a fresh, zesty character. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust citrus flavors. Decanal is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to air, leading to potential off-flavors.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, decanal is used across various fragrance families, including citrus, floral, and woody compositions. It acts as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness and realism. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%. Due to its volatility, decanal contributes primarily to the top notes of a fragrance, evaporating quickly to leave a fresh impression.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Decanal is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use.
- European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 05.015.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the regulatory status aligns with the EU.
- Asia: In Japan and China, decanal is permitted for use in flavors, subject to local regulations.
- Latin America: Generally accepted in countries like Brazil, following MERCOSUR guidelines.
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
- Oral Exposure: Decanal has a high margin of safety when used within recommended levels. The ADI is not explicitly defined, but it is considered safe under typical use conditions.
- Dermal Exposure: In fragrance applications, decanal is not known to cause significant irritation or sensitization at typical use levels. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific product types.
- Inhalation Exposure: As a volatile compound, decanal poses minimal inhalation risk under normal use conditions. Occupational exposure limits are not specifically defined but should be managed through standard ventilation practices.
The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are generally similar, with no significant safety concerns reported at industry-standard concentrations.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Decanal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, citrusy note that enhances both flavor and fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other citrus and fruity compounds, providing a balanced and realistic profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial scent. Formulators should aim for subtlety, using decanal to enhance rather than dominate the overall composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on decanal is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Overall, the confidence in the data quality is high, with no significant gaps identified.
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 2026-09-01 07:48:14 GMT (p2)