FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E,E)-2,6-nonadienal (CAS: 17587-33-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (E,E)-2,6-nonadienal
• IUPAC Name: (2E,6E)-nona-2,6-dienal
• CAS Number: 17587-33-6
• FEMA Number: 2765
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 05.073
• Molecular Formula: C9H14O
• Molecular Weight: 138.21 g/mol

(E,E)-2,6-nonadienal is an unsaturated aldehyde characterized by its conjugated double bonds, which contribute to its potent odor profile. The presence of these functional groups is crucial for its distinctive cucumber-like aroma, making it a valuable component in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(E,E)-2,6-nonadienal is renowned for its fresh, green, cucumber-like odor with a hint of melon. It is a high-impact aroma compound, often used to impart a fresh and natural character to flavor and fragrance compositions. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations. Its role is typically as an impact note, providing a crisp and refreshing quality to the overall sensory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

This compound is naturally found in cucumbers and melons, contributing to their characteristic fresh aroma. It can also form through the enzymatic degradation of linoleic acid, a common fatty acid in plant tissues. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, aligning with consumer preferences for naturally derived ingredients.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(E,E)-2,6-nonadienal is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit, vegetable, and green flavor profiles. It serves as a key impact compound in cucumber and melon flavors, enhancing freshness and authenticity. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 2 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application. It is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or oxidative environments, necessitating careful formulation considerations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, (E,E)-2,6-nonadienal is utilized in green and fresh fragrance families, often in personal care products and household cleaners. It acts as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness and realism. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to 0.5% in the final product, depending on the formulation and desired effect. Its volatility makes it an excellent choice for top note applications, contributing to the initial impression of the fragrance.

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. 05.073.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Generally accepted in Japan and China, but specific regulations may vary.
• Latin America: Accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, though local regulations should be consulted.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, but formulators should verify country-specific regulations to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (E,E)-2,6-nonadienal is considered safe at typical use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically established but generally recognized as safe under GRAS guidelines. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be in place to prevent overexposure during manufacturing.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(E,E)-2,6-nonadienal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, natural aroma to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other green and fruity notes, enhancing the overall freshness and authenticity. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance the overall profile without dominating.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (E,E)-2,6-nonadienal is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are generally consistent, some undocumented variations in use levels and applications may exist. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, but ongoing monitoring of regional updates is recommended.

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 2026-09-17 18:47:41 GMT (p2)