AInsights Entry for 10-undecene nitrile (CAS: 53179-04-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 10-undecene nitrile
• IUPAC Name: Undec-10-enenitrile
• CAS Number: 53179-04-7
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C11H19N
• Molecular Weight: 165.28 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: 10-undecene nitrile contains a nitrile group, which is often associated with a sharp, pungent odor. The presence of an unsaturated carbon chain contributes to its potential use in fragrance applications, providing a unique olfactory character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

10-undecene nitrile is characterized by a sharp, green, and slightly metallic odor profile. It is often described as having a fresh, aldehydic quality with a hint of citrus. The intensity of its odor is moderate, making it suitable for use as a modifier in fragrance compositions. The compound's sensory role is typically as a background realism enhancer, adding complexity and depth to fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

10-undecene nitrile is not known to occur naturally in any significant quantities. It is primarily synthesized through chemical processes, often involving the reaction of undecylenic acid with ammonia or related compounds. Due to its synthetic origin, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

10-undecene nitrile is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its synthetic nature and the presence of a nitrile group, which can impart an undesirable bitterness. When used, it is typically at very low concentrations, often below 1 ppm, to avoid overpowering the flavor profile. Its role in flavor systems is generally limited to providing a subtle green note or enhancing the freshness of citrus flavors. Stability considerations include moderate resistance to heat and pH variations, but it may be prone to oxidation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, 10-undecene nitrile is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, green, and slightly metallic note. It is used across various fragrance families, including green, citrus, and aldehydic compositions. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and character. The compound contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS for flavor use; limited data on fragrance regulation.
• European Union: Not listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use; fragrance use subject to general safety assessments.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific data; general safety assessments apply.
• Latin America: Regulatory status not clearly documented; assumed to follow general international safety standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Limited data available; not typically used in food applications due to potential bitterness and safety concerns.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe at low concentrations in fragrance applications; potential for irritation or sensitization at higher levels.
• Inhalation Exposure: Moderate volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures recommended.

Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications, with more stringent safety assessments required for potential ingestion.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

10-undecene nitrile is valued for its ability to enhance freshness and add complexity to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other green and citrus notes, providing a crisp, clean character. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate if used excessively, and it is often under-utilized due to its synthetic origin. Proper balancing with other components is crucial to achieving the desired olfactory effect.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 10-undecene nitrile is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, particularly concerning oral exposure. Industry practices are largely undocumented, relying on general safety assessments and expert judgment.

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 2026-06-03 13:13:47 GMT (p2)