ethyl 5-formyl oxydecanoate

Ethyl 5-formyl oxydecanoate is a synthetic organic ester with the molecular formula C₁₃H₂₄O₄. It appears as a clear liquid and is characterized by dairy-like aromatic notes used primarily in flavor applications. This compound belongs to the class of fatty acid esters, specifically the ethyl ester of decanoic acid modified with a formyl oxy group at the 5-position. Known synonyms include decanoic acid, 5-(formyloxy)-, ethyl ester and ethyl 5-(formyloxy)decanoate. It is typically produced via chemical synthesis rather than natural extraction. Comprehensive chemical information is accessible through databases such as PubChem, supporting its identification and characterization. This compound is utilized in food flavoring formulations to enhance dairy impressions.

Ethyl 5-formyl oxydecanoate is employed mainly as a flavoring agent in the food industry, providing a creamy, dairy flavor note that enhances the sensory profile of various products. It is not a naturally occurring compound but is synthesized for use in formulated flavors. Its applications include addition to baked goods, dairy product analogues, beverages, confectionery frostings, and other processed foodstuffs where a rich, dairy-type aroma is desired. Regulatory evaluations, including its FEMA (US) number 4765, provide guidance on safe usage levels across multiple food categories, ensuring its appropriateness as a food additive. The compound's integration into flavor blends assists in replicating or enhancing natural dairy flavors in processed foods.

Ethyl 5-formyl oxydecanoate exhibits physical and chemical properties relevant to its use in flavor formulations. It has an estimated molecular weight of approximately 244.33 g/mol and a moderate lipophilicity, indicated by its log P value around 3.5, which suggests good solubility in organic solvents such as alcohol. Its solubility in water is low, approximately 17.16 mg/L at 25 °C, which favors partitioning into lipid phases in food matrices. The compound's flash point is approximately 285 °F, reflecting its volatility under elevated temperatures. These properties influence its stability, delivery, and perception in various food systems, typically favoring fat-rich or alcoholic environments for optimal flavor release.

(IUPAC):	Atomic Weights of the Elements 2011 (pdf)
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(IUPAC):	Periodic Table of the Elements
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Safety information

Hazards identification
Classification of the substance or mixture
GHS Classification in accordance with 29 CFR 1910 (OSHA HCS)
None found.
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Pictogram
Hazard statement(s)
None found.
Precautionary statement(s)
None found.
Oral/Parenteral Toxicity:
Not determined
Dermal Toxicity:
Not determined
Inhalation Toxicity:
Not determined

Safety in use information

Category:
flavoring agents
Recommendation for ethyl 5-formyl oxydecanoate usage levels up to:
	not for fragrance use.
Use levels for FEMA GRAS flavoring substances on which the FEMA Expert Panel based its judgments that the substances are generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
The Expert Panel also publishes separate extensive reviews of scientific information on all FEMA GRAS flavoring substances and can be found at FEMA Flavor Ingredient Library
publication number: 26
Click here to view publication 26
		average usual ppm	average maximum ppm
baked goods:		120.00000	300.00000
beverages(nonalcoholic):		5.00000	50.00000
beverages(alcoholic):		5.00000	50.00000
breakfast cereal:		-	-
cheese:		10.00000	100.00000
chewing gum:		-	-
condiments / relishes:		-	-
confectionery froastings:		5.00000	50.00000
egg products:		5.00000	50.00000
fats / oils:		100.00000	200.00000
fish products:		-	-
frozen dairy:		120.00000	300.00000
fruit ices:		-	-
gelatins / puddings:		120.00000	300.00000
granulated sugar:		-	-
gravies:		40.00000	80.00000
hard candy:		-	-
imitation dairy:		10.00000	100.00000
instant coffee / tea:		5.00000	50.00000
jams / jellies:		-	-
meat products:		-	-
milk products:		10.00000	100.00000
nut products:		5.00000	50.00000
other grains:		-	-
poultry:		-	-
processed fruits:		-	-
processed vegetables:		-	-
reconstituted vegetables:		-	-
seasonings / flavors:		5.00000	50.00000
snack foods:		-	-
soft candy:		100.00000	200.00000
soups:		5.00000	50.00000
sugar substitutes:		-	-
sweet sauces:		1.00000	2.00000

Safety references

EPI System: View

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Toxicology Citations:Search

EPA ACToR:Toxicology Data

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS):Registry

Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary :71468629

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases:Data

ethyl 5-(formyloxy)decanoate

Chemidplus:1367348375