FlavScents AInsights Entry for Decanol (CAS: 112-30-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Decanol, 1-Decanol
• IUPAC Name: Decan-1-ol
• CAS Number: 112-30-1
• FEMA Number: 2334
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.051
• Molecular Formula: C10H22O
• Molecular Weight: 158.28 g/mol

Decanol is a saturated fatty alcohol with a ten-carbon chain and a hydroxyl group at the terminal position. This structure contributes to its moderate hydrophobicity and low volatility, making it useful in applications requiring a balance between lipophilicity and hydrophilicity. The hydroxyl group is crucial for its odor profile, imparting a mild, fatty, and slightly floral scent.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Decanol is characterized by a mild, fatty, and slightly floral odor. It is often described as having a waxy, citrus-like scent with a hint of sweetness. The intensity of decanol's odor is moderate, and it is typically used as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. Its taste threshold is not well-documented, but it is generally considered to have a low flavor impact due to its high molecular weight and low volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Decanol occurs naturally in various plant sources, including citrus oils and some essential oils. It can also be formed through the reduction of decanoic acid or by the hydrogenation of decanal. In the context of "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, decanol can be derived from natural sources or synthesized to mimic its natural occurrence.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Decanol is used in flavor formulations primarily for its ability to impart a subtle fatty and citrus-like note. It is commonly found in citrus, fruity, and floral flavor categories. Its functional role in flavor systems is often as a modifier or background note, enhancing the overall complexity and realism of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering waxy taste. Decanol is relatively stable under typical food processing conditions, but it may oxidize over time, affecting its sensory properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, decanol is valued for its ability to provide a smooth, waxy, and slightly floral note. It is used across various fragrance families, including floral, citrus, and woody compositions. Decanol serves as a modifier or background note, contributing to the overall harmony and depth of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and character. Due to its moderate volatility, decanol is often used as a middle note, providing a lasting presence without being overpowering.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

United States

• FDA/FEMA GRAS: Decanol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and flavor applications.

European Union

• Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008: Approved for use as a flavoring substance with assigned FL number 02.051.

United Kingdom

• Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards, maintaining approval for use in flavors.

Asia

• Japan, China, ASEAN: Decanol is permitted for use in flavors, subject to specific regional regulations.

Latin America

• Brazil, MERCOSUR: Recognized for use in flavors, with compliance to local regulatory frameworks.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Oral Exposure

Decanol has a high margin of safety when used in flavor applications, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. The acceptable daily intake (ADI) is not specifically established, but it is considered safe under current usage conditions.

Dermal Exposure

In fragrance applications, decanol is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing at typical use concentrations. It is included in IFRA standards, which guide safe usage levels in personal care products.

Inhalation Exposure

Due to its low volatility, inhalation exposure is minimal, reducing potential occupational hazards. However, standard safety precautions should be observed in industrial settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Decanol is a versatile ingredient valued for its ability to enhance the complexity and depth of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fatty alcohols and esters, providing a smooth, cohesive background. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate a composition if used excessively, leading to a waxy or soapy character. It is often underutilized in formulations where a subtle, long-lasting note is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on decanol is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented guidelines, though specific sensory thresholds and ADI values are not always explicitly reported. Regulatory frameworks are harmonized across major regions, ensuring consistent safety standards.

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 2026-07-02 11:53:03 GMT (p2)