FlavScents AInsights Entry: Gamma-Undecalactone (Aldehyde C-14)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Gamma-undecalactone, commonly referred to as aldehyde C-14, is a single chemical compound with the IUPAC name 5-Butyl-4-methyloxolan-2-one. It is identified by the CAS number 104-67-6 and has a FEMA number of 3091. Other identifiers include the FL number 09.011 and CoE number 199. The molecular formula for gamma-undecalactone is C11H20O2, with a molecular weight of 184.28 g/mol. This compound is a lactone, characterized by its cyclic ester structure, which contributes to its fruity and creamy odor profile, reminiscent of peach and apricot.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Gamma-undecalactone is renowned for its strong, sweet, and fruity aroma, often described as peach-like with creamy undertones. It exhibits a moderate to high intensity and is known for its excellent diffusion properties. The compound serves as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a distinct peach character. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not universally documented, it is generally recognized for its potent sensory impact even at low concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Gamma-undecalactone naturally occurs in various fruits, including peaches, apricots, and plums. It is formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, specifically from the oxidation of linoleic acid. This compound is significant in the designation of "natural flavor" due to its presence in natural sources and its formation through natural biochemical pathways.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Gamma-undecalactone is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as peach, apricot, and other stone fruits. It functions as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and richness of fruit profiles. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 0.1 to 10 ppm, with industry-typical concentrations around 1-5 ppm. 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, gamma-undecalactone is utilized in various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and gourmand compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the creamy, fruity nuances in perfumes and personal care products. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity. It is considered a middle note due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, gamma-undecalactone is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with the FL number 09.011. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, it is permitted in Japan and China, with specific use levels defined by local regulations. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR have harmonized regulations allowing its use in food and fragrances.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Gamma-undecalactone is considered safe for oral exposure in flavor applications, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically established but deemed safe at typical use levels. For dermal exposure in fragrances, it is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing, with no specific IFRA restrictions. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk due to its moderate volatility and typical use concentrations. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Gamma-undecalactone is valued for its ability to impart a rich, authentic peach note in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fruity and creamy notes, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can add depth and realism.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on gamma-undecalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some specific sensory thresholds may lack precise documentation. Overall, the compound is well-understood within the flavor and fragrance industries.
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 2026-06-02 08:09:21 GMT (p2)
