2,3-Heptanedione (CAS 96-04-8) — Sweet Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
2,3-Heptanedione
CAS 96-04-8
What Is 2,3-Heptanedione?
2,3-Heptanedione is a synthetic aroma compound used to create buttery, creamy notes in food flavorings and some fragrances. You’ll encounter it in dairy replacers, baked goods, and occasionally in gourmand perfumes. While not a major standalone fragrance ingredient, it’s invaluable for adding realistic dairy nuances when other ingredients would be cost-prohibitive or unstable.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does 2,3-Heptanedione Smell Like?
A potent diffusive aroma resembling melted butter and freshly baked croissants. Opens with a sharp, slightly metallic dairy note that settles into a warm, fatty richness. The dry-down reveals faint caramelized sugar nuances, though the molecule lacks true depth—best used as an enhancer rather than a primary note. In dilution, takes on a more delicate cultured cream character.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
A diketone with the molecular formula C7H12O2, 2,3-heptanedione is structurally similar to naturally occurring dairy aromas but more stable. Typically synthesized through oxidation of heptenone or condensation reactions of shorter-chain diketones. The adjacent carbonyl groups create high reactivity—this molecule readily participates in Maillard reactions, making it useful for creating cooked food notes.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 151-153 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.922 g/mL |
| Refractive Index | 1.412 |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food Flavors | 0.1-5 ppm | Up to 10 ppm | Butter replacers |
| Fragrance | 0.01-0.1% | Up to 0.5% | Gourmand accords |
Classic Accords
Tip: Stabilize in ethanol or triacetin to prevent degradation.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under current IFRA standards.
EU Allergen Declaration
Not listed as an EU allergen.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has reviewed food safety data but no specific fragrance safety assessment exists.
Sustainability
Synthesized from petroleum feedstocks. No known major environmental concerns at current usage levels, but energy-intensive production.
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References
- PubChem Compound Summary for 2,3-Heptanedione Link
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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