FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-Undecanone (CAS: 112-12-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

2-Undecanone, also known as methyl nonyl ketone, is a single chemical compound with the IUPAC name undecane-2-one. It is registered under the CAS number 112-12-9. The compound is identified by the FEMA number 3095. Other identifiers include the FL number 07.008 and CoE number 206. The molecular formula for 2-undecanone is C11H22O, with a molecular weight of 170.29 g/mol. This compound features a ketone functional group, which is significant for its odor profile, contributing to its characteristic scent.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

2-Undecanone is known for its distinctive odor, often described as fruity, floral, and herbaceous with a hint of citrus. It possesses a moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable for both impact notes and background realism in formulations. The taste and odor thresholds for 2-undecanone are not clearly reported, but it is typically used to impart a fresh, clean scent in various applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

2-Undecanone occurs naturally in several plants, including rue (Ruta graveolens) and wild ginger (Asarum canadense). It can also be formed through the degradation of fatty acids or via synthetic pathways in industrial settings. 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

In flavor applications, 2-undecanone is utilized across various categories, including fruit, floral, and herbal flavors. It serves as a functional component to enhance freshness and complexity. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with industry-typical levels often around 1 ppm. It is relatively stable under normal conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

2-Undecanone is employed in fragrance formulations, particularly within the citrus, floral, and green fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the overall freshness and complexity of the scent. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance products are from 0.1% to 1%, 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, 2-undecanone is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number. Post-Brexit, the United Kingdom aligns with EU regulations. In Asia, including Japan and China, it is generally accepted under harmonized assumptions, though specific approvals may vary. In Latin America, such as Brazil and MERCOSUR, it is typically accepted under regional guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, 2-undecanone is considered safe within the typical use levels in food, with no specific ADI or MSDI reported. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices. 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

2-Undecanone is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, clean scent and flavor, enhancing the overall profile of formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, but care should be taken to avoid overuse, which can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can add depth without dominating the profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 2-undecanone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some specific numeric values, such as taste and odor thresholds, are not clearly reported. Regulatory frameworks are generally harmonized, but formulators should verify specific regional requirements.

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 12:39:58 GMT (p2)