FlavScents AInsights Entry for (R)-Massoia Lactone (CAS: 51154-96-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (R)-Massoia lactone
• IUPAC Name: (R)-5-Butyloxolan-2-one
• CAS Number: 51154-96-2
• FEMA Number: 3744
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.011
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 170.25 g/mol

(R)-Massoia lactone is a lactone compound characterized by a five-membered oxolane ring with a butyl side chain. Its structure contributes to its creamy, coconut-like odor, which is significant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(R)-Massoia lactone is renowned for its creamy, coconut-like aroma with a sweet, milky undertone. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties. The compound is primarily used as an impact note in formulations, providing a rich, tropical character that enhances the overall sensory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(R)-Massoia lactone is naturally found in the bark of the Massoia tree (Cryptocarya massoia), native to Southeast Asia. It can also be produced via the Maillard reaction or through fermentation processes. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(R)-Massoia lactone is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in dairy, coconut, and tropical fruit profiles. It serves as a key impact note, enhancing creaminess and richness. Typical use levels in food and beverages range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor systems. The compound is stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, (R)-Massoia lactone is utilized in various fragrance families, including gourmand, floral, and tropical scents. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the creamy, sweet base of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges from trace amounts to 0.5% in finished products, depending on the desired intensity. It is primarily a middle note due to its moderate volatility.

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 in some ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, but specific regulations may vary by country.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (R)-Massoia lactone is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI levels, with a wide margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, but IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid irritation or sensitization. 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

(R)-Massoia lactone is valued for its ability to impart a rich, creamy character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with vanilla, coconut, and tropical fruit notes. Formulators should be cautious of its potency to avoid overpowering the blend. It is often under-utilized in savory applications where a subtle creamy note can enhance complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (R)-Massoia lactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification.

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 2026-05-22 02:31:51 GMT (p2)