Octanoic acid (CAS 0124-07-02) — Sweet Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Octanoic acid
CAS 0124-07-02
What Is Octanoic acid?
Octanoic acid is a fatty acid commonly found in dairy products and palm oil. It’s used in food flavorings, perfumes, and industrial applications. This ingredient matters because it contributes to the creamy, cheesy notes in fragrances and can enhance the richness of gourmand compositions.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Octanoic acid Smell Like?
Octanoic acid has a pungent, rancid smell reminiscent of sweaty cheese or goat milk. In dilution, it transforms into a creamy, dairy-like note with a slightly waxy undertone. Over time, the sharpness mellows into a more pleasant, buttery aroma that blends well with other fatty notes.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Octanoic acid is a medium-chain fatty acid with the formula C8H16O2. It’s naturally occurring in milk fats and palm oil, but is typically synthesized for commercial use through oxidation of octanol or fractional distillation of coconut oil. The molecule is linear and non-chiral, contributing to its straightforward synthesis and consistent odor profile.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 239-241 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.910 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 16.5 °C |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used for creamy dairy effects |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.05-0.2% | Up to 0.5% | Masking agent |
| Food Flavoring | 10-50 ppm | Up to 100 ppm | Cheese flavors |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use sparingly to avoid overwhelming rancid notes – best balanced with sweet or fruity components.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Longer chain length provides milder, more waxy character suitable for higher concentrations.
Shorter chain offers sharper, more goat-like cheese notes for punchier effects.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions. Listed as GRAS for food use.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment confirms safe use at current levels in fragrances.
Sustainability
Primarily produced from palm oil derivatives, raising concerns about deforestation. Synthetic production offers more sustainable alternatives. Biodegradable with low environmental persistence.
Explore Octanoic acid
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References
- PubChem Compound Summary for Octanoic acid CID 379
- EFSA Panel on Food Additives (2010). Safety assessment. EFSA Journal.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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