What is 3-oxotetradecanoic Acid Glyceride?
3-oxotetradecanoic Acid Glyceride (CAS Number: 128331-49-7) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the class of fatty acid glycerides. The molecule consists of a 14-carbon chain with a ketone functional group at the third carbon position, esterified to glycerol. This chemical structure classifies it as a modified fatty acid derivative used primarily in the food industry.
Common Uses
This additive functions as a flavoring agent or flavoring adjuvant in food manufacturing. Flavoring adjuvants are compounds that enhance, modify, or round out the sensory profile of foods without necessarily contributing a distinct flavor themselves. Due to its fatty acid glyceride structure, it may be used in products where fat-soluble flavor compounds need to be incorporated, potentially including baked goods, dairy products, confectionery, or other processed foods. The specific applications would depend on manufacturer formulations and regulatory approvals in different jurisdictions.
Safety Assessment
According to FDA records, there are zero reported adverse events associated with 3-oxotetradecanoic Acid Glyceride and zero product recalls linked to this ingredient. This absence of reported safety incidents suggests a favorable safety history in commercial use, though this reflects reported cases rather than comprehensive toxicological evaluation.
The compound has not received FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status. GRAS status is granted when a substance has a long history of safe use in food or when scientific evidence demonstrates safety through properly conducted studies. The lack of GRAS designation does not indicate unsafety; rather, it suggests that a formal safety petition may not have been submitted to the FDA, or that available data were insufficient to support such a designation.
As a synthetic flavoring agent, this compound would typically be subject to FDA regulations for food additives (21 CFR Part 180 or similar). Flavoring agents in the United States are generally regulated under the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association (FEMA) GRAS list when appropriate, or as food additives requiring pre-market approval.
Regulatory Status
In the United States, the FDA does not specifically list 3-oxotetradecanoic Acid Glyceride as a prohibited additive. Its regulatory status appears to be either as an unapproved food additive, a compound permitted under indirect food additive provisions, or one pending formal regulatory classification. Manufacturers using this ingredient would need to ensure compliance with applicable FDA regulations in their specific application.
European Union regulations under EC 1333/2008 do not appear to explicitly list this compound, suggesting it may not be approved for use in EU foodstuffs without specific authorization. Regulatory status varies by country, and manufacturers should verify approval status in their target markets.
Key Studies
Limited published scientific literature is readily available regarding 3-oxotetradecanoic Acid Glyceride. The absence of extensive toxicological studies in the public domain may reflect its specialized use as a minor food ingredient. Fatty acid glycerides in general have demonstrated safety profiles when used at typical food additive levels, though specific toxicological data for this particular compound would strengthen the safety evidence base.
The zero adverse event reports and zero recalls on file with the FDA suggest that any use of this ingredient in commercial products has not generated consumer safety complaints or product safety issues requiring regulatory intervention. However, broader epidemiological or long-term safety studies specific to this compound do not appear to be publicly documented.
Manufacturers considering use of this additive should consult current regulatory guidance and may wish to conduct or reference appropriate toxicological studies to support product safety claims and regulatory compliance.