What is 2-trans,4-cis,7-cis-tridecatrienal?
2-trans,4-cis,7-cis-tridecatrienal (CAS Number: 13552-96-0) is an organic compound classified as an unsaturated aldehyde. It is a naturally occurring volatile compound found in certain plant sources, particularly associated with cucumber and fresh green aromatics. The compound's chemical structure consists of a 13-carbon chain with three double bonds in specific geometric configurations (trans and cis isomers), and an aldehyde functional group at one end. This structural composition contributes to its distinctive sensory properties.
Common Uses
This flavoring agent is primarily used in the food industry to create or enhance cucumber-like, fresh, and green flavor notes. Applications include:
- Beverages (soft drinks, flavored waters, cocktail mixers)
- Condiments and sauces
- Dairy products (yogurts, flavored milks)
- Confectionery and baked goods
- Processed savory foods
- Cosmetic and personal care products
The compound is valued by flavor manufacturers for its ability to provide authentic fresh green characteristics at very low concentrations, allowing for cost-effective formulation of products seeking natural-tasting flavor profiles.
Safety Assessment
Based on available data, 2-trans,4-cis,7-cis-tridecatrienal presents a favorable safety profile:
**FDA Status**: The compound has not received formal FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) designation. However, this does not indicate a safety concern but rather reflects that formal GRAS notification may not have been submitted or completed.
**Adverse Events**: The FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) contains zero reported adverse events associated with this additive, indicating no documented consumer complaints or health incidents linked to its use in food.
**Recalls**: No FDA-documented recalls involving this ingredient have been issued, suggesting it has not caused product safety issues requiring market withdrawal.
**Structural Considerations**: As an aldehyde-containing compound, the chemical structure is stable and similar to many naturally occurring flavor compounds already present in foods. The three unsaturated bonds are common in plant-derived flavoring molecules.
**Typical Usage Levels**: Flavoring compounds of this type are used at extremely low concentrations (typically parts per million), which further reduces any theoretical exposure concerns.
Regulatory Status
2-trans,4-cis,7-cis-tridecatrienal operates within a complex regulatory framework:
**United States**: While not GRAS-listed, the compound may be used under the FDA's flavor regulations if it meets requirements for indirect food additives or if manufacturers have submitted appropriate safety data. Flavor manufacturers typically maintain confidential safety dossiers supporting use.
**European Union**: The EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) maintains a flavoring compounds register, though GRAS status is not an EU designation. The compound's approval status varies by jurisdiction.
**International**: Many countries recognize naturally-derived flavor compounds under simplified approval pathways, particularly those with established presence in foods or plant sources.
Manufacturers using this compound must comply with labeling requirements and may declare it simply as "natural flavor" or "flavoring" depending on jurisdiction.
Key Studies
Limited published scientific literature specifically addresses 2-trans,4-cis,7-cis-tridecatrienal, reflecting the proprietary nature of flavor chemistry research. However, relevant information comes from:
- **Flavor chemistry literature**: The compound is documented in flavor chemistry databases and research on volatile organic compounds in vegetables
- **Structural analogs**: Safety data on chemically similar unsaturated aldehydes in the flavor industry provide relevant toxicological context
- **Natural occurrence**: Identification of this compound in plant sources supports its safety profile as a naturally derived substance
- **Industry safety assessments**: Flavor ingredient manufacturers conduct proprietary safety evaluations following established protocols
The lack of reported adverse events and recalls over its history of use represents the most significant available safety data point.