# 2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 106-72-9
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal is a synthetic organic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It imparts a fresh, citrus-like aroma and is employed in small quantities to enhance the sensory profile of various food and beverage applications.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is 2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal?

2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal (CAS Number: 106-72-9) is a synthetic aldehyde belonging to the class of organic compounds known as aliphatic aldehydes. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic fresh, citrus-like odor. The compound is structurally composed of a seven-carbon chain with aldehyde functionality and two methyl branch groups, which contribute to its distinctive aromatic properties.

## Common Uses

2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal is primarily used as a flavoring agent or flavoring adjuvant in the food and beverage industry. Its citrus and fresh notes make it valuable in formulations including:

- Soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages
- Confectionery and candy products
- Baked goods and desserts
- Dairy products such as yogurts and flavored milks
- Chewing gums
- Savory snack products

The compound typically appears in food formulations at very low concentrations, measured in parts per million (ppm), where its aromatic impact is maximized while minimizing the total additive load in the final product.

## Safety Assessment

The safety profile of 2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal has been evaluated by regulatory agencies and scientific bodies. The FDA has not granted this compound Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status, indicating it has not undergone the formal GRAS notification process in the United States. However, this classification does not necessarily indicate safety concerns; rather, it reflects the regulatory pathway not taken by manufacturers using this ingredient.

According to FDA adverse event reporting systems, there are zero reported adverse events associated with 2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal. Additionally, no FDA recalls have been issued for food products containing this additive, suggesting no identified safety issues have emerged from its use in the food supply.

Toxicological data on similar aldehydes in this chemical class indicate relatively low systemic toxicity when used in flavoring applications at permitted concentrations. The compound's volatility and rapid metabolism typical of simple aldehydes suggest minimal bioaccumulation potential.

## Regulatory Status

The regulatory status of 2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal varies by jurisdiction:

**United States:** The compound is not GRAS-listed by the FDA, but may be used as a food additive under the Food Additives Amendment if it meets applicable regulations or if manufacturers have received FDA clearance through the food additive petition process. Some manufacturers may use it under the category of substances "generally recognized as safe" through alternative pathways or industry consensus.

**European Union:** Flavoring compounds in the EU are subject to the Flavoring Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008. 2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal may appear on approved flavoring substance lists if it meets EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) safety assessments.

**Other Regions:** Approval and permitted use levels may vary in other countries and regions, requiring manufacturers to verify compliance with local food additive regulations before marketing products containing this ingredient.

## Key Studies

Scientific literature on 2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal specifically remains limited in the public domain. However, research on structurally similar aldehydes and the broader class of synthetic flavoring compounds demonstrates that such substances typically exhibit:

- Low acute toxicity in animal models
- Rapid hepatic metabolism
- No evidence of genotoxicity at relevant concentrations
- Minimal bioaccumulation potential

The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated numerous aldehyde-based flavoring compounds, establishing acceptable intake levels based on comprehensive toxicological dossiers. Manufacturers using 2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal should rely on available toxicological data and maintain compliance with established concentration limits in their respective regulatory jurisdictions.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/2-6-dimethyl-5-heptenal. Accessed 2026-05-19.