E-2-Dodecenal
(E)-2-Dodecenal
E-2-Dodecenal, scientifically known as (E)-2-Dodecenal, is an unsaturated aldehyde with a 12-carbon chain featuring a double bond at the 2-position in the E configuration. It is a naturally occurring compound found in various citrus fruits, coriander, and other herbs, contributing to their fresh, citrusy, and fatty aromas. This compound is widely used in the flavor and fragrance industry for its pleasant odor profile, which includes notes of aldehyde freshness and waxy undertones, making it a popular additive in perfumes, soaps, and food products like beverages and baked goods. In spices, it enhances the sensory experience by providing a characteristic scent that mimics natural essential oils. Chemically, it belongs to the alkenal family and is valued for its stability and volatility, which allows it to evaporate readily at room temperature, aiding in aroma diffusion. From a food safety perspective, E-2-Dodecenal is recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food at low concentrations, with no adverse effects reported in typical dietary exposures. Research from peer-reviewed sources, such as those in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, highlights its role in flavor chemistry, noting its low reactivity and compatibility with other food compounds. Physically, it appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a density around 0.84 g/cm³. Its hydrophobic nature makes it more soluble in fats and alcohols than in water, which is typical for long-chain aldehydes. Overall, E-2-Dodecenal exemplifies how organic compounds influence sensory attributes in cuisine and perfumery, with ongoing studies exploring its potential antimicrobial properties in food preservation.
Chemical Properties
Volatility
Non-volatile
Does not evaporate readily — minimal aroma contribution
Chemical Behavior
No sensory data available for this chemical component.
