FlavScents AInsights Entry for Paraldehyde (CAS: 123-63-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Paraldehyde
• IUPAC Name: 2,4,6-Trimethyl-1,3,5-trioxane
• CAS Number: 123-63-7
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not applicable
• Molecular Formula: C6H12O3
• Molecular Weight: 132.16 g/mol

Paraldehyde is a cyclic trimer of acetaldehyde, characterized by its three-membered ether ring structure. This structure contributes to its unique odor profile, which is relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Paraldehyde is known for its distinctive, pungent odor, often described as ethereal and somewhat sweet. It has a sharp, penetrating character with moderate intensity and diffusion. The compound is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a unique olfactory signature that can enhance the complexity of a fragrance or flavor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Paraldehyde does not occur naturally in significant quantities and is primarily synthesized through the polymerization of acetaldehyde. This process involves the acid-catalyzed trimerization of acetaldehyde, forming the cyclic structure of paraldehyde. Due to its synthetic origin, paraldehyde is not typically classified under "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Paraldehyde is utilized in flavor formulations to impart a unique, ethereal note that can enhance the overall profile of a product. It is often used in low concentrations, typically ranging from 0.1 to 5 ppm in finished food or beverage products. Its stability under various conditions, such as heat and pH, makes it a versatile component in flavor systems. However, formulators must consider its potential volatility and reactivity with other ingredients.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, paraldehyde is valued for its ability to add a distinctive, sharp note to compositions. It is commonly used in trace amounts to modify or enhance the realism of a fragrance. Paraldehyde contributes primarily to the top notes due to its high volatility. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.01% to 0.1%.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Paraldehyde is not listed as a FEMA GRAS substance for flavor use.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; lacks an FL number.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific regulatory information available; generally follows international guidelines.
• Latin America: No specific regulatory data available; typically aligns with international standards.

Paraldehyde's regulatory status is characterized by a lack of explicit approvals, necessitating careful consideration by formulators regarding its use in different regions.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Paraldehyde is not commonly used in flavors due to potential toxicity concerns. No ADI or MSDI values are established.
• Dermal Exposure: In fragrance applications, paraldehyde may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use levels.
• Inhalation Exposure: Due to its volatility, inhalation exposure is a consideration, particularly in occupational settings. Proper ventilation and protective measures are recommended.

The risk profiles for paraldehyde differ between food and fragrance applications, with more stringent safety considerations required for dermal and inhalation exposures.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Paraldehyde is valued for its ability to impart a unique, ethereal quality to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other aldehydes and can enhance the complexity of a formulation. However, formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential reactivity. Overuse can lead to an overpowering effect, while underuse may result in a lack of desired impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on paraldehyde is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in regulatory approvals and specific toxicological data, particularly for flavor applications. Industry practices often rely on informed estimates and cautious use due to these uncertainties.

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 2026-04-14 17:46:31 GMT (p2)