AInsights Entry for C12-13 Alcohols (CAS: 75782-86-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

C12-13 alcohols are a mixture of linear and branched alcohols with carbon chain lengths ranging from 12 to 13. These alcohols are commonly used in both flavor and fragrance industries due to their versatile properties. The CAS number for this mixture is 75782-86-4. While there is no specific IUPAC name for the mixture, individual components can be named according to their specific structure. The molecular formula varies depending on the specific alcohols present, but generally falls within the range of C12H26O to C13H28O. The molecular weight also varies accordingly. These alcohols contain hydroxyl functional groups, which contribute to their solubility and reactivity, impacting their odor and flavor characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

C12-13 alcohols are known for their mild, fatty, and waxy odor profile, often described as having a clean and slightly floral scent. The intensity of the odor is moderate, making them suitable for use as background notes in formulations. These alcohols do not have a significant taste profile but can contribute to the overall mouthfeel in flavor applications. The sensory role of C12-13 alcohols is typically as a modifier or a base note, providing a smooth and rounded character to both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

C12-13 alcohols are not commonly found in nature as discrete entities but can be derived from natural sources such as coconut oil and palm kernel oil through processes like hydrogenation and distillation. These alcohols can also be synthesized through the Ziegler process, which involves the oligomerization of ethylene followed by oxidation and hydrogenation. Due to their derivation from natural oils, they can be used in products labeled as containing "natural" ingredients, depending on the regulatory definitions in different regions.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, C12-13 alcohols are used primarily in dairy, confectionery, and bakery products. They function as solvents and carriers for other flavor compounds, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 10 to 100 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially altering the intended flavor profile. These alcohols are stable under typical processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations, but may oxidize over time if not properly stored.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

C12-13 alcohols are utilized in a variety of fragrance families, including floral, fresh, and clean scents. They serve as base notes, providing longevity and depth to the fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. These alcohols contribute to the middle to base notes due to their moderate volatility, enhancing the overall fragrance profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, C12-13 alcohols are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors by FEMA. In the European Union, they are regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and are permitted for use in food and fragrance applications. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for the use of these alcohols in consumer products. In Latin America, regulations may vary, but they are generally accepted for use in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

C12-13 alcohols are considered safe for oral exposure in flavor applications, with no specific acceptable daily intake (ADI) established, but they are used within industry-typical levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, as supported by IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is not typically a concern due to their low volatility. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant safety concerns reported.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

C12-13 alcohols are valued for their ability to enhance the stability and solubility of other compounds in formulations. They synergize well with other alcohols and esters, providing a smooth and balanced profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to a waxy or fatty note that may overpower other elements. They are often underused in formulations where a subtle, clean background note is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on C12-13 alcohols is well-established, with comprehensive information available from industry sources and regulatory bodies. While specific sensory thresholds and detailed toxicological data may be limited, industry practices provide a reliable framework for their use. Known data gaps include detailed compositional analysis of the mixture, which can vary depending on the source and processing methods.

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 2026-05-20 09:49:07 GMT (p2)