Watermelon distillate (CAS 90244-99-8) — Sweet Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
Watermelon distillate
CAS 90244-99-8
What Is Watermelon distillate?
Watermelon distillate captures the essence of ripe summer melons through steam distillation. You’ll find it in fruity body sprays, summer colognes, and tropical-scented products. This ingredient matters because it provides an authentic, non-cloying watermelon character that synthetic alternatives often struggle to match.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Watermelon distillate Smell Like?
The aroma bursts with the juicy sweetness of freshly cut watermelon – that perfect balance between watery freshness and sugary ripeness. Unlike candy-like watermelon aromachemicals, this distillate carries subtle green rind nuances and a dewy, almost cucumber-like freshness that evolves into a soft melon trail. The dry-down reveals faint floral undertones reminiscent of watermelon blossoms.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used alongside pear and citrus notes to create a refreshing aquatic fruit accord. The watermelon adds watery transparency without overwhelming sweetness.
Provides a sun-warmed melon nuance that blends seamlessly with coconut and marine notes for a tropical summer effect.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Watermelon distillate is obtained through steam distillation of fresh Citrullus lanatus fruit. The volatile fraction contains C9 alcohols like nonanol contributing green notes, alongside various aldehydes including (Z)-6-nonenal for fresh melon character. Unlike synthetic reconstructions, the natural distillate contains trace sulfur compounds that enhance authenticity.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Clear pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol and oils |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body Sprays | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Provides authentic fruit character |
| Fine Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used as top note modifier |
Classic Accords
Tip: Combine with calone for enhanced watery effects without losing fruit character.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Synthetic alternative with stronger candy-like watermelon character but lacks natural freshness.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under current IFRA standards.
RIFM Assessment
Considered safe for use in current applications based on natural food use history.
Sustainability
Sourced from food industry byproducts where possible. Steam distillation requires significant water input but avoids solvent use. Seasonal availability impacts supply consistency.
Explore Watermelon distillate
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References
- Buttery et al. (1987). Watermelon Flavor Components. ACS Symposium Series. DOI 10.1021/bk-1987-0373.ch012
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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